2 Kings 17:3

Authorized King James Version

Against him came up Shalmaneser king of Assyria; and Hoshea became his servant, and gave him presents.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עָלָ֣יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
עָלָ֔ה
Against him came up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#3
שַׁלְמַנְאֶ֖סֶר
Shalmaneser
shalmaneser, an assyrian king
#4
מֶ֣לֶךְ
king
a king
#5
אַשּׁ֑וּר
of Assyria
ashshur, the second son of shem; also his descendants and the country occupied by them (i.e., assyria), its region and its empire
#6
וַֽיְהִי
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
ל֤וֹ
H0
#8
הוֹשֵׁ֙עַ֙
and Hoshea
hoshea, the name of five israelites
#9
עֶ֔בֶד
became his servant
a servant
#10
וַיָּ֥שֶׁב
and gave
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#11
ל֖וֹ
H0
#12
מִנְחָֽה׃
him presents
a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Kings. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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