2 Kings 17:35

Authorized King James Version

With whom the LORD had made a covenant, and charged them, saying, Ye shall not fear other gods, nor bow yourselves to them, nor serve them, nor sacrifice to them:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּכְרֹ֨ת

H3772

had made

to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt

יְהוָ֤ה

H3068

With whom the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אִתָּם֙

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

בְּרִ֔ית

H1285

a covenant

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

וַיְצַוֵּ֣ם

H6680

and charged

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

לֵאמֹ֔ר

H559

them saying

to say (used with great latitude)

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

תִֽירְא֖וּ

H3372

Ye shall not fear

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

אֱלֹהִ֣ים

H430

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

#10

אֲחֵרִ֑ים

H312

other

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

#11

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#12

תִשְׁתַּחֲו֣וּ

H7812

nor bow

to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)

#13

לָהֶ֔ם

#14

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#15

תַֽעַבְד֔וּם

H5647

yourselves to them nor serve

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

#16

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#17

תִזְבְּח֖וּ

H2076

them nor sacrifice

to slaughter an animal (usually in sacrifice)

#18

לָהֶֽם׃

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Kings, this passage highlights covenant through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 covenant 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 covenant in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding covenant in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about covenant?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of covenant, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of theology of covenant and God's relational commitment?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources

Biblical Maps