Zephaniah 3:19

Authorized King James Version

Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will save her that halteth, and gather her that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every land where they have been put to shame.

Word-by-Word Analysis

הִנְנִ֥י

H2005

lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if

עֹשֶׂ֛ה

H6213

I will undo

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מְעַנַּ֖יִךְ

H6031

all that afflict

to depress literally or figuratively, transitive or intransitive (in various applications, as follows)

בָּעֵ֣ת

H6256

Behold at that time

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

הַהִ֑יא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

וְהוֹשַׁעְתִּ֣י

H3467

thee and I will save

properly, to be open, wide or free, i.e., (by implication) to be safe; causatively, to free or succor

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

הַצֹּלֵעָ֗ה

H6760

her that halteth

to limp (as if one-sided)

#11

וְהַנִּדָּחָה֙

H5080

her that was driven out

to push off; used in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (to expel, mislead, strike, inflict, etc.)

#12

אֲקַבֵּ֔ץ

H6908

and gather

to grasp, i.e., collect

#13

וְשַׂמְתִּים֙

H7760

and I will get

to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)

#14

לִתְהִלָּ֣ה

H8416

them praise

laudation; specifically (concretely) a hymn

#15

וּלְשֵׁ֔ם

H8034

and fame

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

#16

בְּכָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#17

הָאָ֖רֶץ

H776

in every land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#18

בָּשְׁתָּֽם׃

H1322

where they have been put to shame

shame (the feeling and the condition, as well as its cause); by implication (specifically) an idol

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zephaniah, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Zephaniah.

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 the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?