2 Kings 17:31

Authorized King James Version

And the Avites made Nibhaz and Tartak, and the Sepharvites burnt their children in fire to Adrammelech and Anammelech, the gods of Sepharvaim.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָֽעַוִּ֛ים
And the Avites
an avvite or native of avvah (only plural)
#2
עָשׂ֥וּ
made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#3
נִבְחַ֖ז
Nibhaz
nibchaz, a deity of the avites
#4
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
תַּרְתָּ֑ק
and Tartak
tartak, a deity of the avvites
#6
וְהַֽסְפַרְוִ֗ים
and the Sepharvites
a sepharvite or inhabitant of sepharvain
#7
שֹֽׂרְפִ֤ים
burnt
to be (causatively, set) on fire
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
בְּנֵיהֶם֙
their children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#10
בָּאֵ֔שׁ
in fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#11
לְאַדְרַמֶּ֥לֶךְ
to Adrammelech
adrammelek, the name of an assyrian idol, also of a son of sennacherib
#12
וַֽעֲנַמֶּ֖לֶךְ
and Anammelech
anammelek, an assyrian deity
#13
אֱלֹהֵ֥
the gods
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#14
סְפַרְיִם׃
of Sepharvaim
sepharvites

Analysis

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

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