Genesis 17:22

Authorized King James Version

And he left off talking with him, and God went up from Abraham.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְכַ֖ל
And he left off
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)
#2
לְדַבֵּ֣ר
talking
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#3
אִתּ֑וֹ
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#4
וַיַּ֣עַל
went up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#5
אֱלֹהִ֔ים
with him and God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#6
מֵעַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
אַבְרָהָֽם׃
H85
from Abraham
abraham, the later name of abram

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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