Isaiah 65:18

Authorized King James Version

But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

שִׂ֤ישׂוּ

H7797

But be ye glad

to be bright, i.e., cheerful

וְגִ֙ילוּ֙

H1523

and rejoice

properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear

עֲדֵי

H5703

for ever

properly, a (peremptory) terminus, i.e., (by implication) duration, in the sense of advance or perpetuity (substantially as a noun, either with or wit

עַ֔ד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

אֲשֶׁ֖ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

אֲנִ֣י

H589

בוֹרֵ֧א

H1254

for behold I create

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

#10

כִּי֩

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#11

הִנְנִ֨י

H2005

lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if

#12

בוֹרֵ֧א

H1254

for behold I create

(absolutely) to create; (qualified) to cut down (a wood), select, feed (as formative processes)

#13

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#14

יְרוּשָׁלִַ֛ם

H3389

Jerusalem

jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine

#15

גִּילָ֖ה

H1525

a rejoicing

joy

#16

וְעַמָּ֥הּ

H5971

and her people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

#17

מָשֽׂוֹשׂ׃

H4885

a joy

delight, concretely (the cause or object) or abstractly (the feeling)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

Related Resources

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