Exodus 4:24

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and sought to kill him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִ֥י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
בַדֶּ֖רֶךְ
And it came to pass by the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#3
בַּמָּל֑וֹן
in the inn
a lodgment, i.e., caravanserai or encampment
#4
וַיִּפְגְּשֵׁ֣הוּ
met
to come in contact with, whether by accident or violence; figuratively, to concur
#5
יְהוָ֔ה
that the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
וַיְבַקֵּ֖שׁ
him and sought
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#7
הֲמִיתֽוֹ׃
to kill
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

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 the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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