Joel 1:5

Authorized King James Version

Awake, ye drunkards, and weep; and howl, all ye drinkers of wine, because of the new wine; for it is cut off from your mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הָקִ֤יצוּ
H6974
Awake
to awake (literally or figuratively)
#2
שִׁכּוֹרִים֙
H7910
ye drunkards
intoxicated, as a state or a habit
#3
וּבְכ֔וּ
H1058
and weep
to weep; generally to bemoan
#4
וְהֵילִ֖לוּ
H3213
and howl
to howl (with a wailing tone) or yell (with a boisterous one)
#5
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
שֹׁ֣תֵי
H8354
all ye drinkers
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#7
יָ֑יִן
H3196
of wine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#8
עַל
H5921
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
עָסִ֕יס
H6071
because of the new wine
must or fresh grape-juice (as just trodden out)
#10
כִּ֥י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#11
נִכְרַ֖ת
H3772
for it is 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
#12
מִפִּיכֶֽם׃
H6310
from your mouth
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Joel. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection