Joel 3:15

Authorized King James Version

The sun and the moon shall be darkened, and the stars shall withdraw their shining.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שֶׁ֥מֶשׁ
The sun
the sun; by implication, the east; figuratively, a ray, i.e., (architectural) a notched battlement
#2
וְיָרֵ֖חַ
and the moon
the moon
#3
קָדָ֑רוּ
shall be darkened
to be ashy, i.e., dark-colored; by implication, to mourn (in sackcloth or sordid garments)
#4
וְכוֹכָבִ֖ים
and the stars
a star (as round or as shining); figuratively, a prince
#5
אָסְפ֥וּ
shall withdraw
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#6
נָגְהָֽם׃
their shining
brilliancy (literally or figuratively)

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