2 Kings 16:12

Authorized King James Version

And when the king was come from Damascus, the king saw the altar: and the king approached to the altar, and offered thereon.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּבֹ֤א
was come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#2
הַמֶּ֛לֶךְ
And when the king
a king
#3
מִדַּמֶּ֔שֶׂק
from Damascus
damascus, a city of syria
#4
וַיַּ֥רְא
saw
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#5
הַמֶּ֛לֶךְ
And when the king
a king
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ
the altar
an altar
#8
וַיִּקְרַ֥ב
approached
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#9
הַמֶּ֛לֶךְ
And when the king
a king
#10
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#11
הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ
the altar
an altar
#12
וַיַּ֥עַל
and offered
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#13
עָלָֽיו׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Kings, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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