Exodus 6:3

Authorized King James Version

And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by the name of God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָֽאֵרָ֗א
And I appeared
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
אַבְרָהָ֛ם
H85
unto Abraham
abraham, the later name of abram
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
יִצְחָ֥ק
unto Isaac
jitschak (or isaac), son of abraham
#6
וְאֶֽל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
יַעֲקֹ֖ב
and unto Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch
#8
בְּאֵ֣ל
by the name of God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#9
שַׁדָּ֑י
Almighty
the almighty
#10
וּשְׁמִ֣י
but by my name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#11
יְהוָ֔ה
JEHOVAH
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#12
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#13
נוֹדַ֖עְתִּי
was I not known
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#14
לָהֶֽם׃
H0

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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