1 Kings 18:3

Authorized King James Version

And Ahab called Obadiah, which was the governor of his house. (Now Obadiah feared the LORD greatly:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּקְרָ֣א
called
to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)
#2
אַחְאָ֔ב
And Ahab
achab, the name of a king of israel and of a prophet at babylon
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
וְעֹֽבַדְיָ֗הוּ
Now Obadiah
obadjah, the name of thirteen israelites
#5
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
הַבָּ֑יִת
which was the governor of his house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#8
וְעֹֽבַדְיָ֗הוּ
Now Obadiah
obadjah, the name of thirteen israelites
#9
הָיָ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#10
יָרֵ֛א
feared
fearing; morally, reverent
#11
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
יְהוָ֖ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#13
מְאֹֽד׃
greatly
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources