1 Samuel 20:4

Authorized King James Version

Then said Jonathan unto David, Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תֹּאמַ֥ר
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
יְהֽוֹנָתָ֖ן
Jonathan
jehonathan, the name of four israelites
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
דָּוִ֑ד
unto David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#5
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#6
תֹּאמַ֥ר
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
נַפְשְׁךָ֖
Whatsoever thy soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#8
וְאֶֽעֱשֶׂה
I will even do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
לָּֽךְ׃
H0

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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