Introduction: In this essay we shall undertake the above assignment title in the following way. Firstly; we shall look briefly at some exegetical issues, which may affect, the actual translation of the text. Secondly we shall endeavour to examine the differing opinions of interpretation concerning the passage and the identity of the servant in particular, interacting and engaging with both the perceived strengths and weaknesses of the prospective views. Thirdly; a brief conclusion will be given.
In this essay, the arguments with regards date and authorship of Isaiah, will not be dealt with, as the subject is vast and the above title does not expressly demand it.
Exegetical issues: The purpose of this section will be to study some exegetical issues which could affect ones interpretation of the fourth servant song. The first real problem in exegesis is found in 52:15 in the phrase 'so will he sprinkle many nations' (NIV emphasis mine) or alternatively 'so he shall startle many nations.' (JPS TNK emphasis mine). The word in question is hZ
nāzâ signifies a spattering or (Hiphil) sprinkling of blood, oil, or water either with one’s finger (Lev 4:6) or a “sprinkler” (Lev 14:7). (1999 Theological Wordbook of the Old Testament (electronic ed) Page 566)
Everywhere else hZ
The LXX reading my also influence the 'startle' translation, the LXX renders hZ
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Bernard thinks that your own experience reveals to you the meaning of these passages in Scripture, which are called “a song of steps” (Page 214). In each one of the steps you take, at whatever stage of life he is in, may choose one of these songs to praise and give glory to God. No matter what step you are at in life, God will help and give you one of his specific praises. The deeper you grow towards grace, the deeper you are in His faith. He talks about “a song of steps”, but then goes into the singular dignity and sweetness of the “Song of Songs”.
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