Genesis 19:3

Authorized King James Version

And he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they did eat.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּפְצַר
And he pressed
to peck at, i.e., (figuratively) stun or dull
#2
בָּ֣ם
H0
#3
מְאֹ֔ד
upon them greatly
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
#4
וַיָּסֻ֣רוּ
and they turned in
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#5
אֵלָ֔יו
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
וַיָּבֹ֖אוּ
unto him and entered
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
בֵּית֑וֹ
into his house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#9
וַיַּ֤עַשׂ
and he made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#10
לָהֶם֙
H0
#11
מִשְׁתֶּ֔ה
them a feast
drink, by implication, drinking (the act); also (by implication) a banquet or (generally) feast
#12
וּמַצּ֥וֹת
unleavened bread
properly, sweetness; concretely, sweet (i.e., not soured or bittered with yeast); specifically, an unfermented cake or loaf, or (elliptically) the fes
#13
אָפָ֖ה
and did bake
to cook, especially to bake
#14
וַיֹּאכֵֽלוּ׃
and they did eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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