Zephaniah 3:9

Authorized King James Version

For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the LORD, to serve him with one consent.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אָ֛ז

H227

at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore

אֶהְפֹּ֥ךְ

H2015

For then will I turn

to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

עַמִּ֖ים

H5971

to the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

שָׂפָ֣ה

H8193

language

the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)

בְרוּרָ֑ה

H1305

a pure

to clarify (i.e., brighten), examine, select

לִקְרֹ֤א

H7121

that they may all call

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

כֻלָּם֙

H3605

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

#10

בְּשֵׁ֣ם

H8034

upon the name

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

#11

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#12

לְעָבְד֖וֹ

H5647

to serve

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

#13

שְׁכֶ֥ם

H7926

consent

the neck (between the shoulders) as the place of burdens; figuratively, the spur of a hill

#14

אֶחָֽד׃

H259

him with one

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

Analysis

Within the broader context of Zephaniah, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?