1 Kings 13:9

Authorized King James Version

For so was it charged me by the word of the LORD, saying, Eat no bread, nor drink water, nor turn again by the same way that thou camest.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כֵ֣ן׀

H3651

properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner

צִוָּ֣ה

H6680

For so was it charged

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

אֹתִ֗י

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

בִּדְבַ֤ר

H1697

me by the word

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

יְהוָה֙

H3068

of the LORD

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

לֵאמֹ֔ר

H559

saying

to say (used with great latitude)

לֹא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תֹ֥אכַל

H398

Eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#10

לֶ֖חֶם

H3899

no bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

#11

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#12

תִשְׁתֶּה

H8354

nor drink

to imbibe (literally or figuratively)

#13

מָּ֑יִם

H4325

water

water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen

#14

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#15

תָשׁ֔וּב

H7725

nor turn again

to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);

#16

בַּדֶּ֖רֶךְ

H1870

by the same way

a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb

#17

אֲשֶׁ֥ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

#18

הָלָֽכְתָּ׃

H1980

that thou camest

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Kings, 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 Kings.

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 Kings 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 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?
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?
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?

Related Resources

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