1 Samuel 26:4

Authorized King James Version

David therefore sent out spies, and understood that Saul was come in very deed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁלַ֥ח
therefore sent out
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
דָּוִ֖ד
David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#3
מְרַגְּלִ֑ים
spies
to walk along; but only in specifically, applications, to reconnoiter, to be a tale-bearer (i.e., slander); to lead about
#4
וַיֵּ֕דַע
and understood
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#5
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
בָ֥א
was come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#7
שָׁא֖וּל
that Saul
shaul, the name of an edomite and two israelites
#8
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
נָכֽוֹן׃
in very deed
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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