2 Samuel 3:11

Authorized King James Version

And he could not answer Abner a word again, because he feared him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יָכֹ֣ל
And he could
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#3
ע֔וֹד
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#4
לְהָשִׁ֥יב
not answer
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
אַבְנֵ֖ר
H74
Abner
abner, an israelite
#7
דָּבָ֑ר
a word
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#8
מִיִּרְאָת֖וֹ
again because he feared
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#9
אֹתֽוֹ׃
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

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

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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