Ecclesiastes 8:2

Authorized King James Version

I counsel thee to keep the king's commandment, and that in regard of the oath of God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲנִי֙
i
#2
פִּי
commandment
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#3
מֶ֣לֶךְ
the king's
a king
#4
שְׁמֹ֔ר
I counsel thee to keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#5
וְעַ֕ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
דִּבְרַ֖ת
and that in regard
a reason, suit or style
#7
שְׁבוּעַ֥ת
of the oath
properly, something sworn, i.e., an oath
#8
אֱלֹהִֽים׃
of God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Ecclesiastes. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of covenant within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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