King James Version

What Does Habakkuk 1:7 Mean?

“They are terrible and dreadful: their judgment and their dignity shall proceed of themselves. their judgment: or, from them shall proceed the judgment of these, and the captivity of these”

Context

Behold ye among the heathen, and regard, and wonder marvellously: for I will work a work in your days, which ye will not believe, though it be told you.

For, lo, I raise up the Chaldeans, that bitter and hasty nation, which shall march through the breadth of the land, to possess the dwellingplaces that are not theirs. breadth: Heb. breadths

They are terrible and dreadful: their judgment and their dignity shall proceed of themselves. their judgment: or, from them shall proceed the judgment of these, and the captivity of these

Their horses also are swifter than the leopards, and are more fierce than the evening wolves: and their horsemen shall spread themselves, and their horsemen shall come from far; they shall fly as the eagle that hasteth to eat. fierce: Heb. sharp

They shall come all for violence: their faces shall sup up as the east wind, and they shall gather the captivity as the sand. their: or, the supping up of their faces, etc: or, their faces shall look (Heb. the opposition of their faces) toward the east

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(7) **Their judgment** . . .—Their “judgment” means their claim to adjudge the affairs of mankind. It proceeds from “themselves,” as irresponsible, recognising no Supreme Being as the source of justice. Their dignity, in like manner, proceeds from “themselves,” because self-sustained, unsanctioned by the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Habakkuk. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Habakkuk 1:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.