1 Chronicles 19:4

Authorized King James Version

Wherefore Hanun took David's servants, and shaved them, and cut off their garments in the midst hard by their buttocks, and sent them away.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקַּ֨ח

H3947

took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

חָנ֜וּן

H2586

Wherefore Hanun

chanun, the name of an ammonite and of two israelites

אֶת

H853

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

עַבְדֵ֤י

H5650

servants

a servant

דָוִיד֙

H1732

David's

david, the youngest son of jesse

וַֽיְגַלְּחֵ֔ם

H1548

and shaved

properly, to be bald, i.e., (causatively) to shave; figuratively to lay waste

וַיִּכְרֹ֧ת

H3772

them and cut off

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

אֶת

H853

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

מַדְוֵיהֶ֛ם

H4063

their garments

properly, extent, i.e., measure; by implication, a dress (as measured)

#10

בַּחֵ֖צִי

H2677

in the midst

the half or middle

#11

עַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

#12

הַמִּפְשָׂעָ֑ה

H4667

hard by their buttocks

a stride, i.e., (by euphemism) the crotch

#13

וַֽיְשַׁלְּחֵֽם׃

H7971

and sent them away

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

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

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Chronicles chapter 19 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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?