1 Samuel 12:21

Authorized King James Version

And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹ֖א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תָּס֑וּרוּ

H5493

And turn ye not aside

to turn off (literally or figuratively)

כִּ֣י׀

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

אַֽחֲרֵ֣י

H310

for then should ye go after

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

תֹ֥הוּ

H8414

for they are vain

a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain

אֲשֶׁ֧ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

לֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יוֹעִ֛ילוּ

H3276

things which cannot profit

properly, to ascend; figuratively, to be valuable (objectively; useful, subjectively; benefited)

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

יַצִּ֖ילוּ

H5337

nor deliver

to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

#11

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#12

תֹ֥הוּ

H8414

for they are vain

a desolation (of surface), i.e., desert; figuratively, a worthless thing; adverbially, in vain

#13

הֵֽמָּה׃

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, 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 Samuel.

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 Samuel 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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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