Genesis 24:41

Authorized King James Version

Then shalt thou be clear from this my oath, when thou comest to my kindred; and if they give not thee one, thou shalt be clear from my oath.

Word-by-Word Analysis

אָ֤ז

H227

at that time or place; also as a conjunction, therefore

תִּנָּקֶה֙

H5352

Then shalt thou be clear

to be (or make) clean (literally or figuratively); by implication (in an adverse sense) to be bare, i.e., extirpated

מֵאָֽלָתִֽי׃

H423

from my oath

an imprecation

כִּ֥י

H3588

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

תָב֖וֹא

H935

when thou comest

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

מִשְׁפַּחְתִּ֑י

H4940

to my kindred

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֤א

H3808

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

#10

יִתְּנוּ֙

H5414

and if they give

to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

#11

לָ֔ךְ

#12

וְהָיִ֥יתָ

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

#13

נָקִ֖י

H5355

not thee one thou shalt be clear

innocent

#14

מֵאָֽלָתִֽי׃

H423

from my oath

an imprecation

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights covenant 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

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of Genesis Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 24 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding covenant as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
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?

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