2 Samuel 5:18

Authorized King James Version

The Philistines also came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּפְלִשְׁתִּ֖ים
The Philistines
a pelishtite or inhabitant of pelesheth
#2
בָּ֑אוּ
also came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
וַיִּנָּֽטְשׁ֖וּ
and spread
properly, to pound, i.e., smite; by implication (as if beating out, and thus expanding) to disperse; also, to thrust off, down, out or upon (inclusive
#4
בְּעֵ֥מֶק
themselves in the valley
a vale (i.e., broad depression)
#5
רְפָאִֽים׃
of Rephaim
a giant

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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