2 Kings 4:28

Authorized King James Version

Then she said, Did I desire a son of my lord? did I not say, Do not deceive me?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָמַ֔רְתִּי
Then she said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
הֲשָׁאַ֥לְתִּי
Did I desire
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
#3
בֵ֖ן
a son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#4
מֵאֵ֣ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
אֲדֹנִ֑י
of my lord
sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)
#6
הֲלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
אָמַ֔רְתִּי
Then she said
to say (used with great latitude)
#8
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
תַשְׁלֶ֖ה
Do not deceive
to mislead
#10
אֹתִֽי׃
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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