1 Kings 7:36

Authorized King James Version

For on the plates of the ledges thereof, and on the borders thereof, he graved cherubims, lions, and palm trees, according to the proportion of every one, and additions round about.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְפַתַּ֤ח
thereof he graved
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
הַלֻּחֹת֙
For on the plates
probably meaning to glisten; a tablet (as polished), of stone, wood or metal
#4
יְדֹתֶ֔יהָ
of the ledges
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#5
וְעַל֙
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
ומִסְגְּרֹתֶ֔יהָ
thereof and on the borders
something enclosing, i.e., a margin (of a region, of a panel); concretely, a stronghold
#7
כְּרוּבִ֖ים
cherubims
a cherub or imaginary figure
#8
אֲרָי֣וֹת
lions
a lion
#9
וְתִֽמֹרֹ֑ת
and palm trees
(architectural) a palm-like pilaster (i.e., umbellate)
#10
כְּמַֽעַר
according to the proportion
a nude place, i.e., (literally) the pudenda, or (figuratively) a vacant space
#11
אִ֥ישׁ
of every one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#12
וְלֹי֖וֹת
and additions
a wreath
#13
סָבִֽיב׃
round about
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Kings, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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