1 Samuel 20:32

Authorized King James Version

And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be slain? what hath he done?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּ֙עַן֙
answered
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#2
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
And Jonathan
jehonathan, the name of four israelites
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
שָׁא֖וּל
Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#5
אָבִ֑יו
H1
his father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#6
וַיֹּ֧אמֶר
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
אֵלָ֛יו
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
לָ֥מָּה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#9
יוּמַ֖ת
unto him Wherefore shall he be slain
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#10
מֶ֥ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#11
עָשָֽׂה׃
what hath he done
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Samuel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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