Genesis 30:43

Authorized King James Version

And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּפְרֹ֥ץ

H6555

increased

to break out (in many applications, direct and indirect, literal and figurative)

הָאִ֖ישׁ

H376

And the man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

מְאֹ֑ד

H3966

exceedingly

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

מְאֹ֑ד

H3966

exceedingly

properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

וַֽיְהִי

H1961

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

לוֹ֙

צֹ֣אן

H6629

cattle

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

רַבּ֔וֹת

H7227

and had much

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

וּשְׁפָחוֹת֙

H8198

and maidservants

a female slave (as a member of the household)

#10

וַֽעֲבָדִ֔ים

H5650

and menservants

a servant

#11

וּגְמַלִּ֖ים

H1581

and camels

a camel

#12

וַֽחֲמֹרִֽים׃

H2543

and asses

a male ass (from its dun red)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. 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

How does the creation and providence theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
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?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?

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