2 Chronicles 31:4

Authorized King James Version

Moreover he commanded the people that dwelt in Jerusalem to give the portion of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged in the law of the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר
H559
Moreover he commanded
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לָעָם֙
H5971
the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
לְיֽוֹשְׁבֵ֣י
H3427
that dwelt
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#4
יְרֽוּשָׁלִַ֔ם
H3389
in Jerusalem
jerushalaim or jerushalem, the capital city of palestine
#5
לָתֵ֕ת
H5414
to give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
מְנָ֥ת
H4521
the portion
an allotment (by courtesy, law or providence)
#7
הַכֹּֽהֲנִ֖ים
H3548
of the priests
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#8
וְהַלְוִיִּ֑ם
H3881
and the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#9
לְמַ֥עַן
H4616
properly, heed, i.e., purpose; used only adverbially, on account of (as a motive or an aim), teleologically, in order that
#10
יֶֽחֶזְק֖וּ
H2388
that they might be encouraged
to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra
#11
בְּתוֹרַ֥ת
H8451
in the law
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#12
יְהוָֽה׃
H3068
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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 the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

Questions for Reflection