Exodus 5:23

Authorized King James Version

For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in thy name, he hath done evil to this people; neither hast thou delivered thy people at all.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמֵאָ֞ז
at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore
#2
בָּ֤אתִי
For since I came
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
פַּרְעֹה֙
to Pharaoh
paroh, a general title of egyptian kings
#5
לְדַבֵּ֣ר
to speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#6
בִּשְׁמֶ֔ךָ
in thy name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#7
הֵרַ֖ע
he hath done evil
properly, to spoil (literally, by breaking to pieces); figuratively, to make (or be) good for nothing, i.e., bad (physically, socially or morally)
#8
עַמֶּֽךָ׃
thy people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#9
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#10
הִצַּ֖לְתָּ
at all
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
#11
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
הִצַּ֖לְתָּ
at all
to snatch away, whether in a good or a bad sense
#13
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
עַמֶּֽךָ׃
thy people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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