1 Samuel 22:19

Authorized King James Version

And Nob, the city of the priests, smote he with the edge of the sword, both men and women, children and sucklings, and oxen, and asses, and sheep, with the edge of the sword.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֵ֨ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

נֹ֤ב

H5011

And Nob

nob, a place in palestine

עִיר

H5892

the city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

הַכֹּֽהֲנִים֙

H3548

of the priests

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

הִכָּ֣ה

H5221

smote

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

לְפִי

H6310

he with the edge

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

חָֽרֶב׃

H2719

of the sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

מֵאִישׁ֙

H376

both men

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)

וְעַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

#10

אִשָּׁ֔ה

H802

and women

a woman

#11

מֵֽעוֹלֵ֖ל

H5768

children

a suckling

#12

וְעַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

#13

יוֹנֵ֑ק

H3243

and sucklings

to suck; causatively, to give milk

#14

וְשׁ֧וֹר

H7794

and oxen

a bullock (as a traveller)

#15

וַֽחֲמ֛וֹר

H2543

and asses

a male ass (from its dun red)

#16

וָשֶׂ֖ה

H7716

and sheep

a member of a flock, i.e., a sheep or goat

#17

לְפִי

H6310

he with the edge

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

#18

חָֽרֶב׃

H2719

of the sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within 1 Samuel chapter 22 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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