Genesis 27:16

Authorized King James Version

And she put the skins of the kids of the goats upon his hands, and upon the smooth of his neck:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֵ֗ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#2
עֹרֹת֙
the skins
skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather
#3
גְּדָיֵ֣י
of the kids
a young goat (from browsing)
#4
הָֽעִזִּ֔ים
of the goats
a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)
#5
הִלְבִּ֖ישָׁה
And she put
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
יָדָ֑יו
upon his hands
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
#8
וְעַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
חֶלְקַ֥ת
and upon the smooth
properly, smoothness; figuratively, flattery
#10
צַוָּארָֽיו׃
of his neck
the back of the neck (as that on which burdens are bound)

Analysis

The creation and providence theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history 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

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