1 Kings 2:40

Authorized King James Version

And Shimei arose, and saddled his ass, and went to Gath to Achish to seek his servants: and Shimei went, and brought his servants from Gath.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֣קָם
arose
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#2
שִׁמְעִ֔י
And Shimei
shimi, the name of twenty israelites
#3
וַֽיַּחֲבֹשׁ֙
and saddled
to wrap firmly (especially a turban, compress, or saddle); figuratively, to stop, to rule
#4
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
חֲמֹר֔וֹ
his ass
a male ass (from its dun red)
#6
וַיֵּ֤לֶךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#7
מִגַּֽת׃
from Gath
gath, a philistine city
#8
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
אָכִ֔ישׁ
to Achish
akish, a philistine king
#10
לְבַקֵּ֖שׁ
to seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#11
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
עֲבָדָ֖יו
his servants
a servant
#13
וַיֵּ֣לֶךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#14
שִׁמְעִ֔י
And Shimei
shimi, the name of twenty israelites
#15
וַיָּבֵ֥א
and brought
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#16
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#17
עֲבָדָ֖יו
his servants
a servant
#18
מִגַּֽת׃
from Gath
gath, a philistine city

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Kings, 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 Kings.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources