Deuteronomy 1:9

Authorized King James Version

And I spake unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֵאמֹ֑ר
And I spake
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
אֲלֵכֶ֔ם
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
בָּעֵ֥ת
unto you at that time
time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc
#4
הַהִ֖וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#5
לֵאמֹ֑ר
And I spake
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
אוּכַ֥ל
I am not able
to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)
#8
לְבַדִּ֖י
you myself alone
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit
#9
שְׂאֵ֥ת
to bear
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#10
אֶתְכֶֽם׃
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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