1 Samuel 17:27

Authorized King James Version

And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֵאמֹ֑ר
answered
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לוֹ֙
H0
#3
הָעָ֔ם
And the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#4
כַּדָּבָ֥ר
him after this manner
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#5
הַזֶּ֖ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#6
לֵאמֹ֑ר
answered
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
כֹּ֣ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#8
יֵֽעָשֶׂ֔ה
So shall it be done
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
לָאִ֖ישׁ
to the man
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
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#11
יַכֶּֽנּוּ׃
that killeth
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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