2 Samuel 18:21

Authorized King James Version

Then said Joab to Cushi, Go tell the king what thou hast seen. And Cushi bowed himself unto Joab, and ran.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר
Then said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
לְיוֹאָ֖ב
Joab
joab, the name of three israelites
#3
כוּשִׁ֛י
And Cushi
a cushite, or descendant of cush
#4
לֵ֛ךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#5
הַגֵּ֥ד
tell
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#6
לַמֶּ֖לֶךְ
the king
a king
#7
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
רָאִ֑יתָה
what thou hast seen
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#9
וַיִּשְׁתַּ֧חוּ
bowed
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)
#10
כוּשִׁ֛י
And Cushi
a cushite, or descendant of cush
#11
לְיוֹאָ֖ב
Joab
joab, the name of three israelites
#12
וַיָּרֹֽץ׃
and ran
to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)

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 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

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