1 Chronicles 18:9

Authorized King James Version

Now when Tou king of Hamath heard how David had smitten all the host of Hadarezer king of Zobah;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁמַ֕ע
heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#2
תֹּ֖עוּ
Now when Tou
tou or toi, a syrian king
#3
מֶֽלֶךְ
king
a king
#4
חֲמָ֑ת
of Hamath
chamath, a place in syria
#5
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
הִכָּ֣ה
had smitten
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#7
דָוִ֔יד
how David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
חֵ֖יל
all the host
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength
#11
הֲדַדְעֶ֥זֶר
of Hadarezer
hadarezer, a syrian king, possibly a royal title
#12
מֶֽלֶךְ
king
a king
#13
צוֹבָֽה׃
of Zobah
zoba or zobah, a region of syria

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Chronicles. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection