1 Samuel 25:4

Authorized King James Version

And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע
heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#2
דָּוִ֖ד
And David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#3
בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר
in the wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#4
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
גֹזֵ֥ז
did shear
to cut off; specifically to shear a flock or shave the hair; figuratively to destroy an enemy
#6
נָבָ֖ל
that Nabal
nabal, an israelite
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
צֹאנֽוֹ׃
his sheep
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

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

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