Isaiah 9:16

Authorized King James Version

For the leaders of this people cause them to err; and they that are led of them are destroyed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּֽהְי֛וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
וּמְאֻשָּׁרָ֖יו
For the leaders
to be straight (used in the widest sense, especially to be level, right, happy); figuratively, to go forward, be honest, prosper
#3
הָֽעָם
of this people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#4
הַזֶּ֖ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#5
מַתְעִ֑ים
cause them to err
to vacillate, i.e., reel or stray (literally or figuratively); also causative of both
#6
וּמְאֻשָּׁרָ֖יו
For the leaders
to be straight (used in the widest sense, especially to be level, right, happy); figuratively, to go forward, be honest, prosper
#7
מְבֻלָּעִֽים׃
of them are destroyed
to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy

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

Questions for Reflection

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