Genesis 22:16

Authorized King James Version

And said, By myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and hast not withheld thy son, thine only son:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֕אמֶר

H559

And said

to say (used with great latitude)

בִּ֥י

נִשְׁבַּ֖עְתִּי

H7650

By myself have I sworn

to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

נְאֻם

H5002

saith

an oracle

יְהוָ֑ה

H3068

the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

כִּ֗י

H3588

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

יַ֚עַן

H3282

for because

properly, heed; by implication, purpose (sake or account); used adverbially to indicate the reason or cause

אֲשֶׁ֤ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

עָשִׂ֙יתָ֙

H6213

thou hast done

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

#10

אֶת

H853

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

#11

הַדָּבָ֣ר

H1697

this thing

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

#12

הַזֶּ֔ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

#13

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

and hast not

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#14

חָשַׂ֖כְתָּ

H2820

withheld

to restrain or (reflexive) refrain; by implication, to refuse, spare, preserve; to observe

#15

אֶת

H853

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

#16

בִּנְךָ֥

H1121

thy son

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

#17

אֶת

H853

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

#18

יְחִידֶֽךָ׃

H3173

thine only

properly, united, i.e., sole; by implication, beloved; also lonely; (feminine) the life (as not to be replaced)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The divine name or title here functions within foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?

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