2 Samuel 22:38

Authorized King James Version

I have pursued mine enemies, and destroyed them; and turned not again until I had consumed them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶרְדְּפָ֥ה
I have pursued
to run after (usually with hostile intent; figuratively [of time] gone by)
#2
אֹֽיְבַ֖י
mine enemies
hating; an adversary
#3
וָֽאַשְׁמִידֵ֑ם
and destroyed
to desolate
#4
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
אָשׁ֖וּב
them and turned not again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#6
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#7
כַּלּוֹתָֽם׃
until I had consumed
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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