1 Chronicles 22:16

Authorized King James Version

Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, there is no number. Arise therefore, and be doing, and the LORD be with thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לַזָּהָ֥ב

H2091

Of the gold

gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky

לַכֶּ֛סֶף

H3701

the silver

silver (from its pale color); by implication, money

וְלַנְּחֹ֥שֶׁת

H5178

and the brass

copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)

וְלַבַּרְזֶ֖ל

H1270

and the iron

iron (as cutting); by extension, an iron implement

אֵ֣ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

מִסְפָּ֑ר

H4557

there is no number

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

ק֣וּם

H6965

Arise

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

וַֽעֲשֵׂ֔ה

H6213

therefore and be doing

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

וִיהִ֥י

H1961

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

#10

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

and the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#11

עִמָּֽךְ׃

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

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

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?