Isaiah 9:4

Authorized King James Version

For thou hast broken the yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his oppressor, as in the day of Midian.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֣י׀

H3588

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

אֶת

H853

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

עֹ֣ל

H5923

the yoke

a yoke (as imposed on the neck), literally or figuratively

סֻבֳּל֗וֹ

H5448

of his burden

load (figuratively)

וְאֵת֙

H853

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

מַטֵּ֣ה

H4294

and the staff

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

שִׁכְמ֔וֹ

H7926

of his shoulder

the neck (between the shoulders) as the place of burdens; figuratively, the spur of a hill

שֵׁ֖בֶט

H7626

the rod

a scion, i.e., (literally) a stick (for punishing, writing, fighting, ruling, walking, etc.) or (figuratively) a clan

הַנֹּגֵ֣שׂ

H5065

of his oppressor

to drive (an animal, a workman, a debtor, an army); by implication, to tax, harass, tyrannize

#10

בּ֑וֹ

#11

הַחִתֹּ֖תָ

H2865

For thou hast broken

properly, to prostrate; hence, to break down, either (literally) by violence, or (figuratively) by confusion and fear

#12

כְּי֥וֹם

H3117

as in the day

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

#13

מִדְיָֽן׃

H4080

of Midian

midjan, a son of abraham; also his country and (collectively) his descendants

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this verse's literary context within Isaiah chapter 9 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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