2 Samuel 12:28

Authorized King James Version

Now therefore gather the rest of the people together, and encamp against the city, and take it: lest I take the city, and it be called after my name.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעַתָּ֗ה

H6258

at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive

אֱסֹף֙

H622

Now therefore gather

to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)

אֶת

H853

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

יֶ֣תֶר

H3499

the rest

properly, an overhanging, i.e., (by implication) a small rope (as hanging free)

הָעָ֔ם

H5971

of the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וַֽחֲנֵ֥ה

H2583

and encamp

properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הָעִ֔יר

H5892

against the city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

אֶלְכֹּ֤ד

H3920

and take

to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

#10

פֶּן

H6435

properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest

#11

אֶלְכֹּ֤ד

H3920

and take

to catch (in a net, trap or pit); generally, to capture or occupy; also to choose (by lot); figuratively, to cohere

#12

אֲנִי֙

H589

#13

אֶת

H853

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

#14

הָעִ֔יר

H5892

against the city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

#15

וְנִקְרָ֥א

H7121

and it be called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

#16

שְׁמִ֖י

H8034

after my name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

#17

עָלֶֽיהָ׃

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Samuel Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding covenant community in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?

Related Resources

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

People

David

Study Resources

Biblical Maps