1 Samuel 3:12

Authorized King James Version

In that day I will perform against Eli all things which I have spoken concerning his house: when I begin, I will also make an end.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בַּיּ֤וֹם
In that day
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
#2
הַהוּא֙
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#3
אָקִ֣ים
I will perform
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#4
אֶל
concerning
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
עֵלִ֔י
against Eli
eli, an israelite highpriest
#6
אֵ֛ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#8
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#9
דִּבַּ֖רְתִּי
all things which I have spoken
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#10
אֶל
concerning
near, with or among; often in general, to
#11
בֵּית֑וֹ
his house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#12
הָחֵ֖ל
when I begin
properly, to bore, i.e., (by implication) to wound, to dissolve; figuratively, to profane (a person, place or thing), to break (one's word), to begin
#13
וְכַלֵּֽה׃
I will also make an end
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

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 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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources