Ezekiel 31:5

Authorized King James Version

Therefore his height was exalted above all the trees of the field, and his boughs were multiplied, and his branches became long because of the multitude of waters, when he shot forth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
כֵּן֙
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#3
גָּבְהָ֣א
was exalted
to soar, i.e., be lofty; figuratively, to be haughty
#4
קֹמָת֔וֹ
Therefore his height
height
#5
מִכֹּ֖ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
עֲצֵ֣י
above all the trees
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#7
הַשָּׂדֶ֑ה
of the field
a field (as flat)
#8
וַתִּרְבֶּ֨ינָה
were multiplied
to increase (in whatever respect)
#9
סַֽרְעַפֹּתָ֜יו
and his boughs
a twig
#10
וַתֶּאֱרַ֧כְנָה
became long
to be (causative, make) long (literally or figuratively)
#11
פֹארֹתָ֛ו
and his branches
properly, ornamentation, i.e., (plural) foliage (including the limbs) as bright green
#12
מִמַּ֥יִם
of waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#13
רַבִּ֖ים
because of the multitude
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#14
בְּשַׁלְּחֽוֹ׃
when he shot forth
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

Analysis

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

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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