1 Samuel 16:19

Authorized King James Version

Wherefore Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שִׁלְחָ֥ה
Send
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
שָׁא֛וּל
Wherefore Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#3
מַלְאָכִ֖ים
messengers
a messenger; specifically, of god, i.e., an angel (also a prophet, priest or teacher)
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
יִשָׁ֑י
unto Jesse
jishai, david's father
#6
וַיֹּ֕אמֶר
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
שִׁלְחָ֥ה
Send
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#8
אֵלַ֛י
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
דָּוִ֥ד
me David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#11
בִּנְךָ֖
thy son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#12
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#13
בַּצֹּֽאן׃
which is with the sheep
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Samuel. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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