Isaiah 65:23

Authorized King James Version

They shall not labour in vain, nor bring forth for trouble; for they are the seed of the blessed of the LORD, and their offspring with them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֤א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִֽיגְעוּ֙

H3021

They shall not labour

properly, to gasp; hence, to be exhausted, to tire, to toil

לָרִ֔יק

H7385

in vain

emptiness; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֵלְד֖וּ

H3205

nor bring forth

to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage

לַבֶּהָלָ֑ה

H928

for trouble

panic, destruction

כִּ֣י

H3588

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

זֶ֜רַע

H2233

for they are the seed

seed; figuratively, fruit, plant, sowing-time, posterity

בְּרוּכֵ֤י

H1288

of the blessed

to kneel; by implication to bless god (as an act of adoration), and (vice-versa) man (as a benefit); also (by euphemism) to curse (god or the king, as

#10

יְהוָה֙

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#11

הֵ֔מָּה

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

#12

וְצֶאֱצָאֵיהֶ֖ם

H6631

and their offspring

issue, i.e., produce, children

#13

אִתָּֽם׃

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Isaiah Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
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?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 65 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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