Zephaniah 3:2

Authorized King James Version

She obeyed not the voice; she received not correction; she trusted not in the LORD; she drew not near to her God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹ֤א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
שָֽׁמְעָה֙
H8085
She obeyed
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#3
בְּק֔וֹל
H6963
not the voice
a voice or sound
#4
לֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
לָקְחָ֖ה
H3947
she received
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#6
מוּסָ֑ר
H4148
not correction
properly, chastisement; figuratively, reproof, warning or instruction; also restraint
#7
בַּֽיהוָה֙
H3068
not in the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
בָטָ֔חָה
H982
she trusted
properly, to hie for refuge (but not so precipitately as h2620); figuratively, to trust, be confident or sure
#10
אֶל
H413
near, with or among; often in general, to
#11
אֱלֹהֶ֖יהָ
H430
to her God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#12
לֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#13
קָרֵֽבָה׃
H7126
she drew not near
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Zephaniah. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection