1 Kings 8:49

Authorized King James Version

Then hear thou their prayer and their supplication in heaven thy dwelling place, and maintain their cause,

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְשָֽׁמַעְתָּ֤

H8085

Then hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

הַשָּׁמַ֙יִם֙

H8064

in heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

מְכ֣וֹן

H4349

place

properly, a fixture, i.e., a basis; generally a place, especially as an abode

שִׁבְתְּךָ֔

H3427

thy dwelling

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

תְּפִלָּתָ֖ם

H8605

thou their prayer

intercession, supplication; by implication, a hymn

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

תְּחִנָּתָ֑ם

H8467

and their supplication

graciousness; causatively, entreaty

וְעָשִׂ֖יתָ

H6213

and maintain

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

#10

מִשְׁפָּטָֽם׃

H4941

their cause

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

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

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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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