Genesis 18:21

Authorized King James Version

I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אֵֽרֲדָה

H3381

I will go down

to descend (literally, to go downwards; or conventionally to a lower region, as the shore, a boundary, the enemy, etc.; or figuratively, to fall); cau

נָּ֣א

H4994

'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction

וְאֶרְאֶ֔ה

H7200

now and see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

הַכְּצַֽעֲקָתָ֛הּ

H6818

according to the cry

a shriek

הַבָּ֥אָה

H935

of it which is come

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

אֵלַ֖י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

עָשׂ֣וּ׀

H6213

whether they have done

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

כָּלָ֑ה

H3617

altogether

a completion; adverb, completely; also destruction

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

#10

לֹ֖א

H3808

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

#11

אֵדָֽעָה׃

H3045

unto me and if not I will know

to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o

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

The historical context of the patriarchal period (c. 2000-1500 BCE) and primeval history provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The ancient Near Eastern world with its creation myths, flood narratives, and patriarchal social structures provided the cultural backdrop against which God's revelation stands in stark contrast. The ancient Near Eastern cosmology and patriarchal society would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Ancient Near Eastern creation texts like Enuma Elish provide comparative context for understanding Genesis's unique theological perspective.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 18 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?

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