Genesis 29:22

Authorized King James Version

And Laban gathered together all the men of the place, and made a feast.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֶּֽאֱסֹ֥ף
gathered together
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#2
לָבָ֛ן
And Laban
laban, a place in the desert
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
אַנְשֵׁ֥י
all the men
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#6
הַמָּק֖וֹם
of the place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#7
וַיַּ֥עַשׂ
and made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#8
מִשְׁתֶּֽה׃
a feast
drink, by implication, drinking (the act); also (by implication) a banquet or (generally) feast

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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