1 Samuel 14:16

Authorized King James Version

And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked; and, behold, the multitude melted away, and they went on beating down one another.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּרְא֤וּ
looked
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
הַצֹּפִים֙
And the watchmen
properly, to lean forward, i.e., to peer into the distance; by implication, to observe, await
#3
לְשָׁא֔וּל
of Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#4
בְּגִבְעַ֖ת
in Gibeah
gibah; the name of three places in palestine
#5
בִּנְיָמִ֑ן
of Benjamin
binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
#6
וְהִנֵּ֧ה
lo!
#7
הֶֽהָמ֛וֹן
and behold the multitude
a noise, tumult, crowd; also disquietude, wealth
#8
נָמ֖וֹג
melted away
to melt, i.e., literally (to soften, flow down, disappear), or figuratively (to fear, faint)
#9
וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#10
וַֽהֲלֹֽם׃
on beating down
to strike down; by implication, to hammer, stamp, conquer, disband

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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