Exodus 18:16

Authorized King James Version

When they have a matter, they come unto me; and I judge between one and another, and I do make them know the statutes of God, and his laws.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יִהְיֶ֨ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

לָהֶ֤ם

דָּבָר֙

H1697

When they have a matter

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

בָּ֣א

H935

they come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

אֵלַ֔י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

וְשָׁ֣פַטְתִּ֔י

H8199

unto me and I judge

to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal

בֵּ֥ין

H996

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

אִ֖ישׁ

H376

between one

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

#10

וּבֵ֣ין

H996

between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or

#11

רֵעֵ֑הוּ

H7453

and another

an associate (more or less close)

#12

וְהֽוֹדַעְתִּ֛י

H3045

and I do make them know

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

#13

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#14

חֻקֵּ֥י

H2706

the statutes

an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)

#15

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

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

#16

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#17

תּֽוֹרֹתָֽיו׃

H8451

and his laws

a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation 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

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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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