The Oracle from Yahweh. Unable to explain the mystery, the prophet stations himself on his watch-tower, and looks for the revelation of God's purpose. Soon the oracle comes, and he is asked to write it on tablets plainly, that one may read it running: Behold, the soul of the wicked shall faint in him, but the righteous shall live by his faithfulness (his loyalty to God and His promises).
Habakkuk 2:1. I will stand, etc.: an imaginative representation of the prophet's mission as tsopheh, watchman (cf. Isaiah 21:6 ff.). For -' ashib, I shall return (answer), read yashib, He will return (Syr.).
Habakkuk 2:2. That one may run while reading it: i.e. that one may read it at a glance.
Habakkuk 2:3. Translate, Though the vision may still wait (may have to wait a little longer) for the appointed time, yet it panteth (straineth) toward the end, and will fail not.
Habakkuk 2:4. The first half of the verse is clearly corrupt. The most satisfying solution is to read - ullephah, faint, for - uphph e lah, is puffed up, and to take not upright personally as equivalent to the wicked man (cf. translation above).