Joel 2:8

Authorized King James Version

Neither shall one thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and when they fall upon the sword, they shall not be wounded.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֤ישׁ
H376
Neither shall one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#2
אָחִיו֙
H251
another
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#3
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
יִדְחָק֔וּן
H1766
thrust
to press, i.e., oppress
#5
גֶּ֥בֶר
H1397
every one
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
#6
בִּמְסִלָּת֖וֹ
H4546
in his path
a thoroughfare (as turnpiked), literally or figuratively; specifically a viaduct, a staircase
#7
יֵֽלֵכ֑וּן
H1980
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#8
וּבְעַ֥ד
H1157
in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc
#9
הַשֶּׁ֛לַח
H7973
upon the sword
a missile of attack, i.e., spear; also (figuratively) a shoot of growth; i.e., branch
#10
יִפֹּ֖לוּ
H5307
and when they fall
to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)
#11
לֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
יִבְצָֽעוּ׃
H1214
they shall not be wounded
to break off, i.e., (usually) plunder; figuratively, to finish, or (intransitively) stop

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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