1 Kings 20:41

Authorized King James Version

And he hasted, and took the ashes away from his face; and the king of Israel discerned him that he was of the prophets.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְמַהֵ֕ר
And he hasted
properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)
#2
וַיָּ֙סַר֙
away
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הָ֣אֲפֵ֔ר
and took the ashes
a turban
#5
מֵעֲלֵ֖
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
עֵינָ֑יו
from his face
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#7
וַיַּכֵּ֤ר
discerned
properly, to scrutinize, i.e., look intently at; hence (with recognition implied), to acknowledge, be acquainted with, care for, respect, revere, or (
#8
אֹתוֹ֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
מֶ֣לֶךְ
and the king
a king
#10
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#11
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#12
מֵֽהַנְּבִיאִ֖ים
him that he was of the prophets
a prophet or (generally) inspired man
#13
הֽוּא׃
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Kings. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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