1 Chronicles 6:66

And the residue of the families of the sons of Kohath had cities of their coasts out of the tribe of Ephraim.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּמִֽמִּשְׁפְּח֖וֹת

H4940

And the residue of the families

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

בְּנֵ֣י

H1121

of the 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

קְהָ֑ת

H6955

of Kohath

kehath, an israelite

וַֽיְהִי֙

H1961

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

עָרֵ֣י

H5892

had cities

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

גְבוּלָ֔ם

H1366

of their coasts

properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed

מִמַּטֵּ֖ה

H4294

out of the tribe

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

אֶפְרָֽיִם׃

H669

of Ephraim

ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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