Joel 1:16

Is not the meat cut off before our eyes, yea, joy and gladness from the house of our God?

Word-by-Word Analysis

הֲל֛וֹא

H3808

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

נֶ֥גֶד

H5048

a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before

עֵינֵ֖ינוּ

H5869

before our eyes

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

אֹ֣כֶל

H400

Is not the meat

food

נִכְרָ֑ת

H3772

cut off

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

מִבֵּ֥ית

H1004

from the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

אֱלֹהֵ֖ינוּ

H430

of our God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

שִׂמְחָ֥ה

H8057

yea joy

blithesomeness or glee, (religious or festival)

וָגִֽיל׃

H1524

and gladness

a revolution (of time, i.e., an age); also joy

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joel, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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 establishing foundational concepts crucial to Joel's theological argument.

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 Joel 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 does this verse's literary context within Joel chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?