Joel 2:21

Authorized King James Version

Fear not, O land; be glad and rejoice: for the LORD will do great things.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
H408
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תִּֽירְאִ֖י
H3372
Fear
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#3
אֲדָמָ֑ה
H127
not O land
soil (from its general redness)
#4
גִּ֣ילִי
H1523
be glad
properly, to spin round (under the influence of any violent emotion), i.e., usually rejoice, or (as cringing) fear
#5
וּשְׂמָ֔חִי
H8055
and rejoice
probably to brighten up, i.e., (figuratively) be (causatively, make) blithe or gleesome
#6
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
הִגְדִּ֥יל
H1431
great things
to be (causatively make) large (in various senses, as in body, mind, estate or honor, also in pride)
#8
יְהוָ֖ה
H3068
for the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#9
לַעֲשֽׂוֹת׃
H6213
will do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Joel.

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

Questions for Reflection