1 Samuel 12:4

Authorized King James Version

And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ

H559

And they said

to say (used with great latitude)

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

עֲשַׁקְתָּ֖נוּ

H6231

Thou hast not defrauded

to press upon, i.e., oppress, defraud, violate, overflow

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

רַצּוֹתָ֑נוּ

H7533

us nor oppressed

to crack in pieces, literally or figuratively

וְלֹֽא

H3808

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

לָקַ֥חְתָּ

H3947

us neither hast thou taken

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

מִיַּד

H3027

hand

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

אִ֖ישׁ

H376

of any man's

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)

#10

מְאֽוּמָה׃

H3972

ought

properly, a speck or point, i.e., (by implication) something; with negative, nothing

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?

Related Resources

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