2 Chronicles 2:5

Authorized King James Version

And the house which I build is great: for great is our God above all gods.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַבַּ֛יִת
H1004
And the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#2
אֲשֶׁר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
אֲנִ֥י
H589
i
#4
בוֹנֶ֖ה
H1129
which I build
to build (literally and figuratively)
#5
גָד֥וֹל
H1419
for great
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#6
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
גָד֥וֹל
H1419
for great
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#8
הָֽאֱלֹהִֽים׃
H430
above all gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#9
מִכָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
הָֽאֱלֹהִֽים׃
H430
above all gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Chronicles. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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