Isaiah 7:22

Authorized King James Version

And it shall come to pass, for the abundance of milk that they shall give he shall eat butter: for butter and honey shall every one eat that is left in the land.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיָ֗ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
מֵרֹ֛ב
And it shall come to pass for the abundance
abundance (in any respect)
#3
עֲשׂ֥וֹת
that they shall give
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#4
חָלָ֖ב
of milk
milk (as the richness of kine)
#5
יֹאכֵ֔ל
he shall eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#6
חֶמְאָ֤ה
butter
curdled milk or cheese
#7
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#8
חֶמְאָ֤ה
butter
curdled milk or cheese
#9
וּדְבַשׁ֙
and honey
honey (from its stickiness); by analogy, syrup
#10
יֹאכֵ֔ל
he shall eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#11
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#12
הַנּוֹתָ֖ר
that is left
to jut over or exceed; by implication, to excel; (intransitively) to remain or be left; causatively to leave, cause to abound, preserve
#13
בְּקֶ֥רֶב
in
properly, the nearest part, i.e., the center, whether literal, figurative or adverbial (especially with preposition)
#14
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Isaiah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People