At that time I will change (or restore) the
speech of the peoples
to a pure speech,
that all of them may call on the
name of the LORD
and serve him with one accord.
Compare with (Isaiah 6:5) "...for I (am) a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips ..."
Notice:
a man compare with peoples
unclean compare with pure or clear
lips compare with a ... speech
lip in Hebrew also means speech, language
Commentary on (Zephaniah 3:9) and the Importance of Language Purity
The analysis of (Zephaniah 3:9) provided here highlights several key themes, particularly regarding the translation and understanding of "pure speech."
Below is a third-party commentary on these ideas:
Unity and Purity of Language
1. The Precision of the Hebrew Text
The phrase "pure speech" in (Zephaniah 3:9) is noteworthy because the original Hebrew uses a singular noun for "speech" (lip).
This suggests a single, unified language rather than multiple languages being purified.
The commentary critiques translations that imply plural forms, such as "languages" or "tongues," and instead aligns with the idea of a singular, clear, and unified language.
This singularity ties back to the Tower of Babel narrative in Genesis, where humanity initially spoke one language before it was divided.
(Zephaniah 3:9) may foretell a restoration of this unity before the return of Christ. Only this time belivers will call on GOD's name and not make a name for themselves (Gen 11:4).
2. Purity vs. Cleanliness
The original Hebrew word for "pure" could also be translated as "clear," emphasizing clarity and correctness rather than a moral or ethical cleanliness.
This contrasts with (Isaiah 6:5), where the prophet describes himself as a man of "unclean lips." In Isaiah, "unclean" refers to moral impurity,
whereas Zephaniah focuses on the accuracy and purity of language.
The Evolution of JESUS' Name
1. Preservation of the Original Name
In its Greek form, JESUS' name was transliterated into Latin as Iesus.
The pronunciation of Iesus remained close to the original until changes in English phonetics transformed the letter "J" into the modern hard "J" sound.
This shift led to the current pronunciation of "JESUS," which deviates significantly from the original sound of "YESU" or "IESU."
2. Historical Development
The commentary notes that as late as 1628, the King James Bible (KJV) still used Iesus, retaining its original pronunciation.
Although the spelling shifted to JESUS in 1629, the "J" in early modern English was pronounced as a "Y," similar to "Hallelujah." The modern English pronunciation
("Jee-zus") only emerged about 200 years later, marking a significant departure from the original phonetics.
3. Transmission by the Apostles
It is argued that the apostles likely preserved the original pronunciation of JESUS' name as they spread the Gospel. As the message reached regions with different languages, local adaptations may have emerged. However, over time, this lack of emphasis on the original name led to unintended changes. The commentary emphasizes that these changes were likely not approved by GOD but rather tolerated as part of human error and neglect.
The Prophecy of Restoration in Zephaniah
1. Restoration of a Pure Language
(Zephaniah 3:9) prophesies that in the last days, GOD will restore a pure language so that all peoples may call on His name and serve Him with one accord. This commentary believes that "correction" is an important theme of Zephaniah. This prophecy echoes the reversal of Babel and underscores the importance of clarity and unity in calling on the name of the LORD.
2. Correction and Toleration
The commentary posits that the current variations in the pronunciation of JESUS' name across languages were not part of GOD's plan but rather a result of humanity's neglect. However, Zephaniah's prophecy suggests that these errors will be corrected in the end times, leading to a unified, clear way of calling upon the LORD's name.
Summary and Reflection
This analysis provides a thoughtful exploration of language, names, and translation accuracy in scripture. It highlights the theological and historical importance of preserving the sanctity of JESUS' name and the purity of language used in calling on the name of the LORD. The commentary invites reflection on whether modern believers should strive to return to the original pronunciation of JESUS' name as a sign of reverence and unity. The insights offered here remind us of the gravity of names in the Bible - names carry meaning, identity, and purpose. Mispronunciation or alteration of sacred names, while historically understandable, may obscure their significance. Zephaniah's vision challenges believers to anticipate a future where language is once again pure, unified, and aligned with GOD's Holy Name.
HalleluJah! Praise the LORD! |
