1 Chronicles 9:20

Authorized King James Version

And Phinehas the son of Eleazar was the ruler over them in time past, and the LORD was with him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּפִֽינְחָ֣ס

H6372

And Phinehas

pinechas, the name of three israelites

בֶּן

H1121

the son

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

אֶלְעָזָ֗ר

H499

of Eleazar

elazar, the name of seven israelites

נָגִ֨יד

H5057

was the ruler

a commander (as occupying the front), civil, military or religious; generally (abstractly, plural), honorable themes

הָיָ֧ה

H1961

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

עֲלֵיהֶ֛ם

H5921

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

לְפָנִ֖ים

H6440

over them in time past

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

יְהוָ֥ה׀

H3068

and the LORD

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

עִמּֽוֹ׃

H5973

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

Analysis

This verse develops the kingdom of God theme central to 1 Chronicles. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of kingdom of God within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 kingdom of God 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address the apparent delay of Christ's return and God's justice, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding kingdom of God as presented in this verse, particularly in light of providing hope in times of political and social upheaval?