1 Chronicles 5:16

And they dwelt in Gilead in Bashan, and in her towns, and in all the suburbs of Sharon, upon their borders.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֵּ֥שְׁב֛וּ

H3427

And they dwelt

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בַּגִּלְעָ֥ד

H1568

in Gilead

gilad, a region east of the jordan; also the name of three israelites

בַּבָּשָׁ֖ן

H1316

in Bashan

bashan (often with the article), a region east of the jordan

וּבִבְנֹתֶ֑יהָ

H1323

and in her towns

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

וּבְכָֽל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

מִגְרְשֵׁ֥י

H4054

and in all the suburbs

a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea

שָׁר֖וֹן

H8289

of Sharon

sharon, the name of a place in palestine

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

תּֽוֹצְאוֹתָֽם׃

H8444

upon their borders

(only in plural collective) exit, i.e., (geographical) boundary, or (figuratively) deliverance, (actively) source

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

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 the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?
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?