1 Chronicles 14:12

Authorized King James Version

And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּ֥עַזְבוּ
And when they had left
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#2
שָׁ֖ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
אֱלֹֽהֵיהֶ֑ם
their gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#5
וַיֹּ֣אמֶר
gave a commandment
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
דָּוִ֔יד
there David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#7
וַיִּשָּֽׂרְפ֖וּ
and they were burned
to be (causatively, set) on fire
#8
בָּאֵֽשׁ׃
with fire
fire (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Chronicles. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection