1 Samuel 17:19

Authorized King James Version

Now Saul, and they, and all the men of Israel, were in the valley of Elah, fighting with the Philistines.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְשָׁא֤וּל
Now Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#2
וְהֵ֙מָּה֙
they (only used when emphatic)
#3
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
אִ֣ישׁ
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#5
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#6
בְּעֵ֖מֶק
were in the valley
a vale (i.e., broad depression)
#7
הָֽאֵלָ֑ה
of Elah
elah, the name of an edomite, of four israelites, and also of a place in palestine
#8
נִלְחָמִ֖ים
fighting
to feed on; figuratively, to consume
#9
עִם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#10
פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים׃
with the Philistines
a pelishtite or inhabitant of pelesheth

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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