Genesis 13:6

Authorized King James Version

And the land was not able to bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was great, so that they could not dwell together.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלֹֽא

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

נָשָׂ֥א

H5375

was not able to bear

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

אֹתָ֛ם

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הָאָ֖רֶץ

H776

And the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

לָשֶׁ֥בֶת

H3427

not dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

יַחְדָּֽו׃

H3162

together

properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

הָיָ֤ה

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

רְכוּשָׁם֙

H7399

for their substance

property (as gathered)

#10

רָ֔ב

H7227

was great

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

#11

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#12

יָֽכְל֖וּ

H3201

so that they could

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

#13

לָשֶׁ֥בֶת

H3427

not dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

#14

יַחְדָּֽו׃

H3162

together

properly, a unit, i.e., (adverb) unitedly

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

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?

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