1 Samuel 20:33

Authorized King James Version

And Saul cast a javelin at him to smite him: whereby Jonathan knew that it was determined of his father to slay David.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֨טֶל
cast
to pitch over or reel; hence (transitively) to cast down or out
#2
שָׁא֧וּל
And Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#3
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַחֲנִ֛ית
a javelin
a lance (for thrusting, like pitching a tent)
#5
עָלָ֖יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
לְהַכֹּת֑וֹ
at him to smite
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#7
וַיֵּ֙דַע֙
knew
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#8
יְה֣וֹנָתָ֔ן
him whereby Jonathan
jehonathan, the name of four israelites
#9
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
כָ֥לָה
that it was determined
a completion; adverb, completely; also destruction
#11
הִ֛יא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#12
מֵעִ֥ם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#13
אָבִ֖יו
H1
of his father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#14
לְהָמִ֥ית
to slay
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#15
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#16
דָּוִֽד׃
David
david, the youngest son of jesse

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

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources