1 Kings 7:10

Authorized King James Version

And the foundation was of costly stones, even great stones, stones of ten cubits, and stones of eight cubits.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמְיֻסָּ֕ד
And the foundation
to set (literally or figuratively); intensively, to found; reflexively, to sit down together, i.e., settle, consult
#2
וְאַבְנֵ֖י
H68
and stones
a stone
#3
יְקָר֖וֹת
was of costly
valuable (objectively or subjectively)
#4
וְאַבְנֵ֖י
H68
and stones
a stone
#5
גְּדֹל֑וֹת
even great
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#6
וְאַבְנֵ֖י
H68
and stones
a stone
#7
עֶ֣שֶׂר
of ten
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
#8
אַמּֽוֹת׃
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)
#9
וְאַבְנֵ֖י
H68
and stones
a stone
#10
שְׁמֹנֶ֥ה
of eight
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#11
אַמּֽוֹת׃
cubits
properly, a mother (i.e., unit of measure, or the fore-arm (below the elbow), i.e., a cubit; also a door-base (as a bond of the entrance)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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