Ezra 8:14

Authorized King James Version

Of the sons also of Bigvai; Uthai, and Zabbud, and with them seventy males.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמִבְּנֵ֥י
Of the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
בִגְוַ֖י
also of Bigvai
bigvai, an israelite
#3
עוּתַ֣י
Uthai
uthai, the name of two israelites
#4
וְזַבּ֑וּד
and Zabbud
zabbud, an israelite
#5
וְעִמּ֖וֹ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#6
שִׁבְעִ֥ים
and with them seventy
seventy
#7
הַזְּכָרִֽים׃
males
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ezra. 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

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 Ezra Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection