2 Kings 11:6

Authorized King James Version

And a third part shall be at the gate of Sur; and a third part at the gate behind the guard: so shall ye keep the watch of the house, that it be not broken down.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְהַשְּׁלִשִׁ֥ית

H7992

And a third part

third; feminine a third (part); by extension, a third (day, year or time); specifically, a third-story cell)

בַּשַּׁ֖עַר

H8179

at the gate

an opening, i.e., door or gate

ס֔וּר

H5495

of Sur

sur, a gate of the temple

וְהַשְּׁלִשִׁ֥ית

H7992

And a third part

third; feminine a third (part); by extension, a third (day, year or time); specifically, a third-story cell)

בַּשַּׁ֖עַר

H8179

at the gate

an opening, i.e., door or gate

אַחַ֣ר

H310

behind

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

הָֽרָצִ֑ים

H7323

the guard

to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)

וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֛ם

H8104

so shall ye keep

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

מִשְׁמֶ֥רֶת

H4931

the watch

watch, i.e., the act (custody), or (concretely) the sentry, the post; objectively preservation, or (concretely) safe; figuratively observance, i.e., (

#11

הַבַּ֖יִת

H1004

of the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

#12

מַסָּֽח׃

H4535

that it be not broken down

a cordon, (adverbially) or (as a) military barrier

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Kings, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Kings.

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 salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Kings Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 2 Kings chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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