2 Chronicles 5:8

Authorized King James Version

For the cherubims spread forth their wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּֽהְי֤וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
הַכְּרוּבִ֛ים
For the cherubims
a cherub or imaginary figure
#3
פֹּֽרְשִׂ֣ים
spread forth
to break apart, disperse, etc
#4
כְּנָפַ֔יִם
their wings
an edge or extremity; specifically (of a bird or army) a wing, (of a garment or bedclothing) a flap, (of the earth) a quarter, (of a building) a pinna
#5
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
מְק֖וֹם
over the place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#7
הָֽאָר֥וֹן
of the ark
a box
#8
וַיְכַסּ֧וּ
covered
properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)
#9
הַכְּרוּבִ֛ים
For the cherubims
a cherub or imaginary figure
#10
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#11
הָֽאָר֥וֹן
of the ark
a box
#12
וְעַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
בַּדָּ֖יו
and the staves
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
#14
מִלְמָֽעְלָה׃
thereof above
properly,the upper part, used only adverbially with prefix upward, above, overhead, from the top, etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Chronicles, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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