2 Kings 17:37

Authorized King James Version

And the statutes, and the ordinances, and the law, and the commandment, which he wrote for you, ye shall observe to do for evermore; and ye shall not fear other gods.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֶת

H853

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

הַֽחֻקִּ֨ים

H2706

And the statutes

an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)

וְאֶת

H853

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

הַמִּשְׁפָּטִ֜ים

H4941

and the ordinances

properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind

וְהַתּוֹרָ֤ה

H8451

and the law

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

וְהַמִּצְוָה֙

H4687

and the commandment

a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

כָּתַ֣ב

H3789

which he wrote

to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)

לָכֶ֔ם

#10

תִּשְׁמְר֥וּן

H8104

for you ye shall observe

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

#11

לַֽעֲשׂ֖וֹת

H6213

to do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

#12

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#13

הַיָּמִ֑ים

H3117

for evermore

a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

#14

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

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

#15

תִֽירְא֖וּ

H3372

and ye shall not fear

to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten

#16

אֱלֹהִ֥ים

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

#17

אֲחֵרִֽים׃

H312

other

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Kings. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

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