Genesis 18:7

Authorized King James Version

And Abraham ran unto the herd, and fetcht a calf tender and good, and gave it unto a young man; and he hasted to dress it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

בָּקָ֜ר

H1241

unto the herd

a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd

רָ֣ץ

H7323

ran

to run (for whatever reason, especially to rush)

אַבְרָהָ֑ם

H85

And Abraham

abraham, the later name of abram

וַיִּקַּ֨ח

H3947

and fetcht

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

בֶּן

H1121

a calf

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

בָּקָ֜ר

H1241

unto the herd

a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd

רַ֤ךְ

H7390

tender

tender (literally or figuratively); by implication, weak

וָטוֹב֙

H2896

and good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

#10

וַיִּתֵּ֣ן

H5414

and gave

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

#11

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#12

הַנַּ֔עַר

H5288

it unto a young man

(concretely) a boy (as active), from the age of infancy to adolescence; by implication, a servant; also (by interch. of sex), a girl (of similar latit

#13

וַיְמַהֵ֖ר

H4116

and he hasted

properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)

#14

לַֽעֲשׂ֥וֹת

H6213

to dress

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

#15

אֹתֽוֹ׃

H853

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights divine love 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 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 Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about divine love?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address the problem of evil and suffering in light of God's goodness, and how should the church respond?

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