1 Chronicles 21:7

Authorized King James Version

And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֵּ֙רַע֙
was displeased
properly, to be broken up (with any violent action) i.e., (figuratively) to fear
#2
בְּעֵינֵ֣י
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#3
הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים
And God
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
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הַדָּבָ֖ר
with this thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#6
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#7
וַיַּ֖ךְ
therefore he smote
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection