1 Kings Chapter 13 · Verse 15
Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread.
Original Language Analysis
לֵ֥ךְ
H1980
לֵ֥ךְ
Strong's:
H1980
Word #:
3 of 7
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
אִתִּ֖י
H854
אִתִּ֖י
Strong's:
H854
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
הַבָּ֑יְתָה
home
H1004
הַבָּ֑יְתָה
home
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
5 of 7
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Historical Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. This period (c. 930-850 BCE) saw rapid succession and instability, especially in the northern kingdom.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
- What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Analysis & Commentary
Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of the man of god from judah, within the book's focus on spiritual decline of both kingdoms under various rulers.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.