Book of Habbakuk Study

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Habakkuk 1

Comprehension Questions:

  1. Who is Habakkuk, and what is his main complaint to God in this chapter?
  2. What does Habakkuk say about the violence and injustice he sees around him?
  3. How does God respond to Habakkuk’s complaint?
  4. What nation does God say He will use as judgment?
  5. Why is Habakkuk confused about God using the Babylonians (Chaldeans)?

Hebraic References:

  • The Chaldeans (כַּשְׂדִּים - Kasdim): This was another name for the Babylonians, who were known for their military power and cruelty.
  • Prophets as Intercessors: In Jewish tradition, prophets often wrestled with God in prayer on behalf of their people, similar to Moses and Jeremiah.

Hebrew Word Study:

  • שֹׁד (Shod) - "Violence" (Habakkuk 1:3) – Habakkuk complains about all the “shod” (violence) he sees around him. This word means destruction, oppression, and ruin.

Habakkuk 2

Comprehension Questions:

  1. What does Habakkuk do after hearing God’s answer?
  2. What does God tell him to do with the vision?
  3. What does it mean when God says, "The just shall live by his faith" (2:4)?
  4. What are some of the judgments (woes) God pronounces on the wicked?
  5. How does God remind Habakkuk that He is ultimately in control?

Hebraic References:

  • Tablets for Writing: God tells Habakkuk to write the vision plainly on tablets. In ancient Israel, laws and important messages were often inscribed on stone or clay tablets.
  • Faith in Hebrew Thought: The phrase "the just shall live by his faith" (2:4) is a foundational verse in both Judaism and Christianity.

Hebrew Word Study:

  • אֱמוּנָה (Emunah) - "Faith" (Habakkuk 2:4) – This word doesn’t just mean belief but steadfast trust and faithfulness to God’s covenant.

Habakkuk 3

Comprehension Questions:

  1. How does Habakkuk respond to God’s message in this chapter?
  2. What does Habakkuk recall about God's past works?
  3. What imagery does Habakkuk use to describe God's power?
  4. How does Habakkuk express his faith in God, even in hard times?
  5. What can we learn from Habakkuk’s prayer about trusting God?

Hebraic References:

  • Shigionoth (שִׁגְיֹנוֹת): This word appears in 3:1 and refers to a type of musical or poetic style, possibly a passionate, wild melody.
  • Olive Trees and Fig Trees: In Jewish culture, these were symbols of prosperity and blessing. Habakkuk says even if these fail, he will still trust in God.

Hebrew Word Study:

  • גִּיל (Gil) - "Rejoice" (Habakkuk 3:18) – This means to rejoice greatly or spin around with joy, showing Habakkuk’s deep trust in God.