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022524 Hab 2_19-3_6 Session 5.pdf
See session 3
Interpreting verse 4 shapes the understanding of verses 5 to 20. If directed to the Chaldeans, the subsequent verses warn against their oppressive rule. If aimed at the Antichrist, they prophesy the downfall of oppressive powers in the end times. If generally directed, they serve as a timeless warning against the outcomes of pride and oppression. All interpretations provide unique insights: historical context, eschatological themes, and timeless wisdom. A well-rounded understanding considers all these views.
See session 4
Verses 19-20 critique idolatry, highlighting the absurdity of expecting guidance from a lifeless idol. This is applicable historically and prophetically, referencing Revelation 13:15's end times prophecy. Verse 20 contrasts this with the living God, emphasizing His majesty and authority. It calls for awe, reverence, and submission to God, underlining the futility of idolatry and His supreme worthiness of worship.
Chapter 3 of Habakkuk is one of only two independent psalms in the Bible, with the other being found in Isaiah 38:9-20. The significance of these two independent psalms will be discussed in greater depth when we explore verse 19.
Habakkuk presents this prayer "upon Shigionoth." This Hebrew word is rare, only appearing here and in Psalm 7, which makes its meaning somewhat elusive. The King James translators typically translated every Hebrew word. However, in this case, they considered the word as a proper name and kept it in Hebrew, a convention followed by all major modern translations. There are two potential root words for Shigionoth: one means "to cry aloud," and the other means "to wonder." Given that both Psalm 7 and Habakkuk 3 do not relate to wondering, the consensus is that this was a song meant to be "cried."
The Psalm begins in verse 2 with Habakkuk's testimony, "I have heard" the speech of the Lord. His reaction was fear, a pattern often seen in scripture.
Habakkuk pleads with the Lord to revive His work. From chapter 1, we know that Habakkuk's main concern is the silence of God and his longing for God to act, particularly through judgment for wickedness. He requests that the Lord's work be revived "in the midst of the years," a phrase repeated twice in the verse for poetic emphasis.
What are these "years" Habakkuk refers to? The answer is purely speculative. However, it's plausible that Habakkuk, like Daniel and Jeremiah, received a vision of God's scheduled work. Jeremiah saw 70 years of captivity, and Daniel saw 70 weeks of God's work with Israel. Unlike Jeremiah and Daniel, there is no revelation about any specific years Habakkuk might have known.