Genesis 29:8

Authorized King James Version

And they said, We cannot, until all the flocks be gathered together, and till they roll the stone from the well's mouth; then we water the sheep.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּֽאמְרוּ֮

H559

And they said

to say (used with great latitude)

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

נוּכַל֒

H3201

We cannot

to be able, literally (can, could) or morally (may, might)

עַ֣ד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

אֲשֶׁ֤ר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

יֵאָֽסְפוּ֙

H622

be gathered together

to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הָ֣עֲדָרִ֔ים

H5739

until all the flocks

an arrangement, i.e., muster (of animals)

וְגָֽלֲלוּ֙

H1556

and till they roll

to roll (literally or figuratively)

#10

אֶת

H853

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

#11

הָאֶ֔בֶן

H68

the stone

a stone

#12

מֵעַ֖ל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#13

פִּ֣י

H6310

mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

#14

הַבְּאֵ֑ר

H875

from the well's

a pit; especially a well

#15

וְהִשְׁקִ֖ינוּ

H8248

then we water

to quaff, i.e., (causatively) to irrigate or furnish a potion to

#16

הַצֹּֽאן׃

H6629

the sheep

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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 systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
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?

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