Exodus 18:4

Authorized King James Version

And the name of the other was Eliezer; for the God of my father, said he, was mine help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְשֵׁ֥ם

H8034

And the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הָֽאֶחָ֖ד

H259

of the other

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

אֱלִיעֶ֑זֶר

H461

was Eliezer

eliezer, the name of a damascene and of ten israelites

כִּֽי

H3588

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

אֱלֹהֵ֤י

H430

for the 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

אָבִי֙

of my father

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

בְּעֶזְרִ֔י

H5828

said he was mine help

aid

וַיַּצִּלֵ֖נִי

H5337

and delivered

to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense

מֵחֶ֥רֶב

H2719

me from the sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

#10

פַּרְעֹֽה׃

H6547

of Pharaoh

paroh, a general title of egyptian kings

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 Exodus.

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 salvation within the theological tradition of Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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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