Isaiah 9:13

For the people turneth not unto him that smiteth them, neither do they seek the LORD of hosts.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהָעָ֥ם

H5971

For the people

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

לֹא

H3808

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

שָׁ֖ב

H7725

turneth

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

עַד

H5704

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

הַמַּכֵּ֑הוּ

H5221

not unto him that smiteth

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

וְאֶת

H853

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

יְהוָ֥ה

H3068

the LORD

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

צְבָא֖וֹת

H6635

of hosts

a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

#10

דָרָֽשׁוּ׃

H1875

them neither do they seek

properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?

Related Resources

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