1 Kings 4:29

Authorized King James Version

And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּתֵּן֩
gave
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#2
אֱלֹהִ֨ים
And God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#3
חָכְמָ֧ה
wisdom
wisdom (in a good sense)
#4
לִשְׁלֹמֹ֛ה
Solomon
shelomah, david's successor
#5
וּתְבוּנָ֖ה
and understanding
intelligence; by implication, an argument; by extension, caprice
#6
הַרְבֵּ֣ה
much
to increase (in whatever respect)
#7
מְאֹ֑ד
exceeding
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
#8
וְרֹ֣חַב
and largeness
width (literally or figuratively)
#9
לֵ֔ב
of heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#10
כַּח֕וֹל
even as the sand
sand (as round or whirling particles)
#11
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#12
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
שְׂפַ֥ת
shore
the lip (as a natural boundary); by implication, language; by analogy, a margin (of a vessel, water, cloth, etc.)
#14
הַיָּֽם׃
that is on 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

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Kings, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of wisdom connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about wisdom, 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 wisdom in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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