Genesis 29:9

Authorized King James Version

And while he yet spake with them, Rachel came with her father's sheep: for she kept them.

Word-by-Word Analysis

עוֹדֶ֖נּוּ

H5750

And while he yet

properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

מְדַבֵּ֣ר

H1696

spake

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

עִמָּ֑ם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

וְרָחֵ֣ל׀

H7354

with them Rachel

rachel, a wife of jacob

בָּ֗אָה

H935

came

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

עִם

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

הַצֹּאן֙

H6629

sheep

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

אֲשֶׁ֣ר

H834

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

לְאָבִ֔יהָ

with her father's

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

#10

כִּ֥י

H3588

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

#11

רֹעָ֖ה

H7462

for she kept them

to tend a flock; i.e., pasture it; intransitively, to graze (literally or figuratively); generally to rule; by extension, to associate with (as a frie

#12

הִֽוא׃

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence 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 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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 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?

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline