2 Chronicles 23:16

Authorized King James Version

And Jehoiada made a covenant between him, and between all the people, and between the king, that they should be the LORD'S people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּכְרֹ֤ת
H3772
made
to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
#2
יְהֽוֹיָדָע֙
H3077
And Jehoiada
jehojada, the name of three israelites
#3
בְּרִ֔ית
H1285
a covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#4
בֵּינ֕וֹ
H996
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#5
וּבֵ֥ין
H996
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#6
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
לְעָ֖ם
H5971
between him and between all the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#8
וּבֵ֣ין
H996
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#9
הַמֶּ֑לֶךְ
H4428
and between the king
a king
#10
לִֽהְי֥וֹת
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#11
לְעָ֖ם
H5971
between him and between all the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#12
לַֽיהוָֽה׃
H3068
that they should be the LORD'S
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights covenant through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of 2 Chronicles Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection