Zephaniah 2:6

Authorized King James Version

And the sea coast shall be dwellings and cottages for shepherds, and folds for flocks.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְֽהָיְתָ֞ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

חֶ֣בֶל

H2256

coast

ruin

הַיָּ֗ם

H3220

And the sea

a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif

נְוֹ֛ת

H5116

shall be dwellings

(adjectively) at home; hence (by implication of satisfaction) lovely; also (noun) a home, of god (temple), men (residence), flocks (pasture), or wild

כְּרֹ֥ת

H3741

and cottages

a meadow

רֹעִ֖ים

H7462

for shepherds

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

וְגִדְר֥וֹת

H1448

and folds

enclosure (especially for flocks)

צֹֽאן׃

H6629

for flocks

a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

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 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 Zephaniah 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

How does this verse's literary context within Zephaniah chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?