2 Samuel 8:18

Authorized King James Version

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada was over both the Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's sons were chief rulers.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּבְנָיָ֙הוּ֙
And Benaiah
benajah, the name of twelve israelites
#2
וּבְנֵ֥י
sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#3
יְה֣וֹיָדָ֔ע
of Jehoiada
jehojada, the name of three israelites
#4
וְהַכְּרֵתִ֖י
was over both the Cherethites
a kerethite or life-guardsman
#5
וְהַפְּלֵתִ֑י
and the Pelethites
a courier (collectively) or official messenger
#6
וּבְנֵ֥י
sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#7
דָוִ֖ד
and David's
david, the youngest son of jesse
#8
כֹּֽהֲנִ֥ים
were chief rulers
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#9
הָיֽוּ׃
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Samuel, this passage highlights kingdom of God 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 kingdom of God 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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