2 Samuel 12:23

Authorized King James Version

But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֣ה׀
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
מֵ֗ת
But now he is dead
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#3
לָ֤מָּה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#4
זֶּה֙
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#5
אֲנִ֣י
i
#6
צָ֔ם
wherefore should I fast
to cover over (the mouth), i.e., to fast
#7
הַֽאוּכַ֥ל
can
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#8
יָשׁ֥וּב
I bring him back again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#9
ע֑וֹד
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#10
אֲנִי֙
i
#11
הֹלֵ֣ךְ
I shall go
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#12
אֵלָ֔יו
near, with or among; often in general, to
#13
וְה֖וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#14
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#15
יָשׁ֥וּב
I bring him back again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#16
אֵלָֽי׃
near, with or among; often in general, to

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Samuel.

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

Questions for Reflection

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