Exodus 2:12

Authorized King James Version

And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּ֤פֶן
And he looked
to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc
#2
וָכֹ֔ה
and that way
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#3
וָכֹ֔ה
and that way
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#4
וַיַּ֖רְא
and when he saw
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#5
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
אֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#7
אִ֑ישׁ
that there was no man
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)
#8
וַיַּךְ֙
he slew
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
הַמִּצְרִ֔י
the Egyptian
a mitsrite, or inhabitant of mitsrajim
#11
וַֽיִּטְמְנֵ֖הוּ
and hid
to hide (by covering over)
#12
בַּחֽוֹל׃
him in the sand
sand (as round or whirling particles)

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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