1 Kings 8:7

Authorized King James Version

For the cherubims spread forth their two wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
הַכְּרֻבִ֛ים
For the cherubims
a cherub or imaginary figure
#3
פֹּֽרְשִׂ֣ים
spread forth
to break apart, disperse, etc
#4
כְּנָפַ֔יִם
their two wings
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
#5
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
מְק֖וֹם
over the place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#7
הָֽאָר֥וֹן
of the ark
a box
#8
וַיָּסֹ֧כּוּ
covered
properly, to entwine as a screen; by implication, to fence in, cover over, (figuratively) protect
#9
הַכְּרֻבִ֛ים
For the cherubims
a cherub or imaginary figure
#10
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#11
הָֽאָר֥וֹן
of the ark
a box
#12
וְעַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
בַּדָּ֖יו
and the staves
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
#14
מִלְמָֽעְלָה׃
thereof above
properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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