2 Kings 7:20

Authorized King James Version

And so it fell out unto him: for the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיְהִי
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
ל֖וֹ
H0
#3
כֵּ֑ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#4
וַיִּרְמְס֨וּ
trode
to tread upon (as a potter, in walking or abusively)
#5
אֹת֥וֹ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הָעָ֛ם
And so it fell out unto him for the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#7
בַּשַּׁ֖עַר
upon him in the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#8
וַיָּמֹֽת׃
and he died
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

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 covenant community 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

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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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