1 Samuel 2:23

Authorized King James Version

And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֣אמֶר
And he said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לָהֶ֔ם
H0
#3
לָ֥מָּה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#4
תַֽעֲשׂ֖וּן
unto them Why do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
דִּבְרֵיכֶ֣ם
dealings
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#6
הָאֵ֑לֶּה
these or those
#7
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
אָֽנֹכִ֤י
i
#9
שֹׁמֵ֙עַ֙
for I hear
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#10
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
דִּבְרֵיכֶ֣ם
dealings
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#12
רָעִ֔ים
of your evil
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#13
מֵאֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#15
הָעָ֥ם
by all this people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#16
אֵֽלֶּה׃
these or those

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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