Joel 3:21

Authorized King James Version

For I will cleanse their blood that I have not cleansed: for the LORD dwelleth in Zion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נִקֵּ֑יתִי
H5352
For I will cleanse
to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated
#2
דָּמָ֣ם
H1818
their blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#3
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#4
נִקֵּ֑יתִי
H5352
For I will cleanse
to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated
#5
וַֽיהוָ֖ה
H3068
for the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
שֹׁכֵ֥ן
H7931
dwelleth
to reside or permanently stay (literally or figuratively)
#7
בְּצִיּֽוֹן׃
H6726
in Zion
tsijon (as a permanent capital), a mountain of jerusalem

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 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection