Genesis 22:23

Authorized King James Version

And Bethuel begat Rebekah: these eight Milcah did bear to Nahor, Abraham's brother.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּבְתוּאֵ֖ל
And Bethuel
bethuel, the name of a place in palestine
#2
יָֽלְדָ֣ה
begat
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
רִבְקָ֑ה
Rebekah
ribkah, the wife of isaac
#5
שְׁמֹנָ֥ה
these eight
a cardinal number, eight (as if a surplus above the 'perfect' seven); also (as ordinal) eighth
#6
אֵ֙לֶּה֙
these or those
#7
יָֽלְדָ֣ה
begat
to bear young; causatively, to beget; medically, to act as midwife; specifically, to show lineage
#8
מִלְכָּ֔ה
Milcah
milcah, the name of a hebrewess and of an israelite
#9
לְנָח֖וֹר
to Nahor
nachor, the name of the grandfather and a brother of abraham
#10
אֲחִ֥י
brother
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#11
אַבְרָהָֽם׃
H85
Abraham's
abraham, the later name of abram

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources