1 Samuel 25:16

Authorized King James Version

They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.

Word-by-Word Analysis

חוֹמָה֙

H2346

They were a wall

a wall of protection

הָי֣וּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

עָלֵ֔ינוּ

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

גַּם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

לַ֖יְלָה

H3915

unto us both by night

properly, a twist (away of the light), i.e., night; figuratively, adversity

גַּם

H1571

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

יוֹמָ֑ם

H3119

and day

daily

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

יְמֵ֛י

H3117

all the while

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

#10

הֱיוֹתֵ֥נוּ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#11

עִמָּ֖ם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

#12

רֹעִ֥ים

H7462

we were with them keeping

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

#13

הַצֹּֽאן׃

H6629

the sheep

a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Samuel chapter 25 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
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?

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