Genesis 21:18

Authorized King James Version

Arise, lift up the lad, and hold him in thine hand; for I will make him a great nation.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ק֚וּמִי

H6965

Arise

to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)

שְׂאִ֣י

H5375

lift up

to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative

אֶת

H853

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

הַנַּ֔עַר

H5288

the lad

(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

וְהַֽחֲזִ֥יקִי

H2388

and hold

to fasten upon; hence, to seize, be strong (figuratively, courageous, causatively strengthen, cure, help, repair, fortify), obstinate; to bind, restra

אֶת

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

יָדֵ֖ךְ

H3027

him in thine hand

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

בּ֑וֹ

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#10

לְג֥וֹי

H1471

nation

a foreign nation; hence, a gentile; also (figuratively) a troop of animals, or a flight of locusts

#11

גָּד֖וֹל

H1419

him a great

great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent

#12

אֲשִׂימֶֽנּוּ׃

H7760

for I will make

to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 covenant community. 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

How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?

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