2 Chronicles 15:5

Authorized King James Version

And in those times there was no peace to him that went out, nor to him that came in, but great vexations were upon all the inhabitants of the countries.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּבָֽעִתִּ֣ים

H6256

And in those times

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

הָהֵ֔ם

H1992

they (only used when emphatic)

אֵ֥ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

שָׁל֖וֹם

H7965

there was no peace

safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace

לַיּוֹצֵ֣א

H3318

to him that went out

to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim

וְלַבָּ֑א

H935

nor to him that came in

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

כִּ֚י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מְהוּמֹ֣ת

H4103

vexations

confusion or uproar

רַבּ֔וֹת

H7227

but great

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

#10

עַ֥ל

H5921

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

#11

כָּל

H3605

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

#12

יֹשְׁבֵ֖י

H3427

were upon all the inhabitants

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

#13

הָֽאֲרָצֽוֹת׃

H776

of the countries

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of peace connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about peace, 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 2 Chronicles.

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 peace. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of peace differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
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?