2 Samuel 13:1

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name was Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִ֣י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
אַֽחֲרֵי
And it came to pass after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#3
כֵ֗ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#4
וּלְאַבְשָׁל֧וֹם
H53
this that Absalom
abshalom, a son of david; also (the fuller form) a later israelite
#5
בֶּן
the 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
#6
דָּוִֽד׃
of David
david, the youngest son of jesse
#7
אָח֥וֹת
sister
a sister (used very widely [like h0251], literally and figuratively)
#8
יָפָ֖ה
had a fair
beautiful (literally or figuratively)
#9
וּשְׁמָ֣הּ
whose name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#10
תָּמָ֑ר
was Tamar
tamar, the name of three women and a place
#11
וַיֶּֽאֱהָבֶ֖הָ
loved
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#12
אַמְנ֥וֹן
and Amnon
amnon (or aminon), a son of david
#13
בֶּן
the 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
#14
דָּוִֽד׃
of David
david, the youngest son of jesse

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Samuel, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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