Isaiah 59:5

Authorized King James Version

They hatch cockatrice' eggs, and weave the spider's web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth, and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִבֵּֽיצֵיהֶם֙
eggs
an egg (from its whiteness)
#2
צִפְעוֹנִי֙
cockatrice
a viper (as thrusting out the tongue, i.e., hissing)
#3
תִּבָּקַ֥ע
They hatch
to cleave; generally, to rend, break, rip or open
#4
וְקוּרֵ֥י
web
(only plural) trenches, i.e., a web (as if so formed)
#5
עַכָּבִ֖ישׁ
the spider's
a spider (as weaving a network)
#6
יֶאֱרֹ֑גוּ
and weave
to plait or weave
#7
הָאֹכֵ֤ל
he that eateth
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#8
מִבֵּֽיצֵיהֶם֙
eggs
an egg (from its whiteness)
#9
יָמ֔וּת
dieth
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#10
וְהַזּוּרֶ֖ה
and that which is crushed
trodden on
#11
תִּבָּקַ֥ע
They hatch
to cleave; generally, to rend, break, rip or open
#12
אֶפְעֶֽה׃
into a viper
an asp or other venomous serpent

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Isaiah.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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