Joel 1:4

Authorized King James Version

That which the palmerworm hath left hath the locust eaten; and that which the locust hath left hath the cankerworm eaten; and that which the cankerworm hath left hath the caterpiller eaten.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְיֶ֣תֶר
hath left
properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)
#2
הַגָּזָם֙
That which the palmerworm
a kind of locust
#3
אָכַ֖ל
eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#4
הָאַרְבֶּ֖ה
and that which the locust
a locust (from its rapid increase)
#5
וְיֶ֣תֶר
hath left
properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)
#6
הָאַרְבֶּ֖ה
and that which the locust
a locust (from its rapid increase)
#7
אָכַ֖ל
eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#8
הַיֶּ֔לֶק
and that which the cankerworm
a devourer; specifically, the young locust
#9
וְיֶ֣תֶר
hath left
properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)
#10
הַיֶּ֔לֶק
and that which the cankerworm
a devourer; specifically, the young locust
#11
אָכַ֖ל
eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#12
הֶחָסִֽיל׃
hath the caterpiller
the ravager, i.e., a locust

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 establishing foundational concepts crucial to Joel's theological argument.

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

Questions for Reflection