1 Kings 4:5

Authorized King James Version

And Azariah the son of Nathan was over the officers: and Zabud the son of Nathan was principal officer, and the king's friend:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽעֲזַרְיָ֥הוּ
And Azariah
azarjah, the name of nineteen israelites
#2
בֶּן
the son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#3
נָתָ֛ן
of Nathan
nathan, the name of five israelites
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הַנִּצָּבִ֑ים
was over the officers
to station, in various applications (literally or figuratively)
#6
וְזָב֧וּד
and Zabud
given, zabud, an israelite
#7
בֶּן
the son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#8
נָתָ֛ן
of Nathan
nathan, the name of five israelites
#9
כֹּהֵ֖ן
was principal officer
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#10
רֵעֶ֥ה
friend
a (male) companion
#11
הַמֶּֽלֶךְ׃
and the king's
a king

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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