Nahum 1:10

Authorized King James Version

For while they be folden together as thorns, and while they are drunken as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stubble fully dry.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#3
סִירִ֣ים
as thorns
a thorn (as springing up rapidly); by implication, a hook
#4
סְבֻכִ֔ים
For while they be folden together
to entwine
#5
וּכְסָבְאָ֖ם
as drunkards
potation, concretely (wine), or abstractly (carousal)
#6
סְבוּאִ֑ים
and while they are drunken
to quaff to satiety, i.e., become tipsy
#7
אֻ֨כְּל֔וּ
they shall be devoured
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#8
כְּקַ֥שׁ
as stubble
straw (as dry)
#9
יָבֵ֖שׁ
dry
dry
#10
מָלֵֽא׃
to fill or (intransitively) be full of, in a wide application (literally and figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Nahum. 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 Nahum 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