1 Kings 4:20

Authorized King James Version

Judah and Israel were many, as the sand which is by the sea in multitude, eating and drinking, and making merry.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יְהוּדָ֤ה
Judah
jehudah (or judah), the name of five israelites; also of the tribe descended from the first, and of its territory
#2
וְיִשְׂרָאֵל֙
and Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#3
רַבִּ֔ים
were many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#4
כַּח֥וֹל
as the sand
sand (as round or whirling particles)
#5
אֲשֶׁר
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
הַיָּ֖ם
which is by the sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#8
לָרֹ֑ב
in multitude
abundance (in any respect)
#9
אֹֽכְלִ֥ים
eating
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#10
וְשֹׁתִ֖ים
and drinking
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#11
וּשְׂמֵחִֽים׃
and making merry
blithe or gleeful

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

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 revelation 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