Genesis 14:12

Authorized King James Version

And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּקְח֨וּ
And they took
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
ל֧וֹט
Lot
lot, abraham's nephew
#4
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
רְכֻשׁ֛וֹ
and his goods
property (as gathered)
#6
בֶּן
son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#7
אֲחִ֥י
brother's
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#8
אַבְרָ֖ם
H87
Abram's
abram, the original name of abraham
#9
וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#10
וְה֥וּא
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
#11
יֹשֵׁ֖ב
who dwelt
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#12
בִּסְדֹֽם׃
in Sodom
sedom, a place near the dead sea

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, 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

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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