Genesis 19:25

Authorized King James Version

And he overthrew those cities, and all the plain, and all the inhabitants of the cities, and that which grew upon the ground.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיַּהֲפֹךְ֙
And he overthrew
to turn about or over; by implication, to change, overturn, return, pervert
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
הֶֽעָרִ֔ים
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#4
הָאֵ֔ל
those
these or those
#5
וְאֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
הַכִּכָּ֑ר
and all the plain
a circle, i.e., (by implication) a circumjacent tract or region, especially the ghor or valley of the jordan; also a (round) loaf; also a talent (or l
#8
וְאֵת֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
יֹֽשְׁבֵ֣י
and all the inhabitants
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#11
הֶֽעָרִ֔ים
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#12
וְצֶ֖מַח
and that which grew
a sprout (usually concrete), literal or figurative
#13
הָֽאֲדָמָֽה׃
upon the ground
soil (from its general redness)

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 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.

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