1 Chronicles 25:9

Authorized King James Version

Now the first lot came forth for Asaph to Joseph: the second to Gedaliah, who with his brethren and sons were twelve:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֵּצֵ֞א

H3318

came forth

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

הַגּוֹרָ֧ל

H1486

lot

properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

הָֽרִאשׁ֛וֹן

H7223

Now the first

first, in place, time or rank (as adjective or noun)

לְאָסָ֖ף

H623

for Asaph

asaph, the name of three israelites, and of the family of the first

לְיוֹסֵ֑ף

H3130

to Joseph

joseph, the name of seven israelites

גְּדַלְיָ֙הוּ֙

H1436

to Gedaliah

gedaljah, the name of five israelites

הַשֵּׁנִ֔י

H8145

the second

properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again

הֽוּא

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

וְאֶחָ֥יו

H251

who with his brethren

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

#10

וּבָנָ֖יו

H1121

and sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

#11

שְׁנֵ֥ים

H8147

were twelve

two; also (as ordinal) twofold

#12

עָשָֽׂר׃

H6240

ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?
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?