Genesis 12:14

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִ֕י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
כְּב֥וֹא
was come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
אַבְרָ֖ם
H87
And it came to pass that when Abram
abram, the original name of abraham
#4
מִצְרָ֑יְמָה
into Egypt
mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt
#5
וַיִּרְא֤וּ
beheld
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#6
הַמִּצְרִים֙
the Egyptians
a mitsrite, or inhabitant of mitsrajim
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
הָ֣אִשָּׁ֔ה
the woman
a woman
#9
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
יָפָ֥ה
fair
beautiful (literally or figuratively)
#11
הִ֖וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#12
מְאֹֽד׃
that she was very
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence 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 Genesis.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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