Lamentations 3:35

Authorized King James Version

To turn aside the right of a man before the face of the most High,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לְהַטּוֹת֙
To turn aside
to stretch or spread out; by implication, to bend away (including moral deflection); used in a great variety of application (as follows)
#2
מִשְׁפַּט
the right
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#3
גָּ֔בֶר
of a man
properly, a valiant man or warrior; generally, a person simply
#4
נֶ֖גֶד
a front, i.e., part opposite; specifically a counterpart, or mate; usually (adverbial, especially with preposition) over against or before
#5
פְּנֵ֥י
before the face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#6
עֶלְיֽוֹן׃
of the most High
an elevation, i.e., (adjectively) lofty (comparatively); as title, the supreme

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Lamentations. 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 Lamentations 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