Genesis 26:14

Authorized King James Version

For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽיְהִי

H1961

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

ל֤וֹ

וּמִקְנֵ֣ה

H4735

For he had possession

something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition

צֹאן֙

H6629

of flocks

a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)

וּמִקְנֵ֣ה

H4735

For he had possession

something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition

בָקָ֔ר

H1241

of herds

a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd

וַֽעֲבֻדָּ֖ה

H5657

of servants

something wrought, i.e., (concretely) service

רַבָּ֑ה

H7227

and great store

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

וַיְקַנְא֥וּ

H7065

envied

to be (causatively, make) zealous, i.e., (in a bad sense) jealous or envious

#10

אֹת֖וֹ

H853

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

#11

פְּלִשְׁתִּֽים׃

H6430

and the Philistines

a pelishtite or inhabitant of pelesheth

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 divine revelation. 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

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?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 26 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline