2 Samuel 15:1

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיְהִי֙
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
מֵאַ֣חֲרֵי
And it came to pass after this
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#3
כֵ֔ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#4
וַיַּ֤עַשׂ
prepared
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
לוֹ֙
H0
#6
אַבְשָׁל֔וֹם
H53
that Absalom
abshalom, a son of david; also (the fuller form) a later israelite
#7
מֶרְכָּבָ֖ה
him chariots
a chariot
#8
וְסֻסִ֑ים
and horses
a horse (as leaping)
#9
וַֽחֲמִשִּׁ֥ים
and fifty
fifty
#10
אִ֖ישׁ
men
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#11
רָצִ֥ים
to run
to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)
#12
לְפָנָֽיו׃
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Samuel. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources