1 Samuel 12:22

Authorized King James Version

For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֠י

H3588

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

לֹֽא

H3808

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

יִטֹּ֤שׁ

H5203

will not forsake

properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

For the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶת

H853

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

לְעָֽם׃

H5971

his people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

בַּֽעֲב֖וּר

H5668

properly, crossed, i.e., (abstractly) transit; used only adverbially, on account of, in order that

שְׁמ֣וֹ

H8034

name's

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הַגָּד֑וֹל

H1419

for his great

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

#10

כִּ֚י

H3588

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

#11

הוֹאִ֣יל

H2974

sake because it hath pleased

properly, to yield, especially assent; hence (pos.) to undertake as an act of volition

#12

יְהוָ֔ה

H3068

For the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#13

לַֽעֲשׂ֥וֹת

H6213

to make

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

#14

אֶתְכֶ֛ם

H853

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

#15

ל֖וֹ

#16

לְעָֽם׃

H5971

his people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Samuel chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

Related Resources

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