1 Chronicles 18:2

Authorized King James Version

And he smote Moab; and the Moabites became David's servants, and brought gifts.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּ֖ךְ

H5221

And he smote

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

מוֹאָב֙

H4124

Moab

moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants

וַיִּֽהְי֤וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

מוֹאָב֙

H4124

Moab

moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants

עֲבָדִ֣ים

H5650

servants

a servant

לְדָוִ֔יד

H1732

became David's

david, the youngest son of jesse

נֹֽשְׂאֵ֖י

H5375

and brought

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

מִנְחָֽה׃

H4503

gifts

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Chronicles.

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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?