Genesis 2:6

Authorized King James Version

But there went up a mist from the earth, and watered the whole face of the ground.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֵ֖ד
a mist
a fog
#2
יַֽעֲלֶ֣ה
But there went up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#3
מִן
from
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#4
הָאָ֑רֶץ
the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#5
וְהִשְׁקָ֖ה
and watered
to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to
#6
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#8
פְּנֵ֥י
the whole face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#9
הָֽאֲדָמָֽה׃
of the ground
soil (from its general redness)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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