Isaiah 60:8

Authorized King James Version

Who are these that fly as a cloud, and as the doves to their windows?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מִי
who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix
#2
אֵ֖לֶּה
these or those
#3
כָּעָ֣ב
as a cloud
properly, an envelope, i.e., darkness (or density, 2 chronicles 4:17); specifically, a (scud) cloud; also a copse
#4
תְּעוּפֶ֑ינָה
Who are these that fly
to fly; also (by implication of dimness) to faint (from the darkness of swooning)
#5
וְכַיּוֹנִ֖ים
and as the doves
a dove (apparently from the warmth of their mating)
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
אֲרֻבֹּתֵיהֶֽם׃
to their windows
a lattice; (by implication) a window, dovecot (because of the pigeon-holes), chimney (with its apertures for smoke), sluice (with openings for water)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Isaiah. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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