Genesis 31:5

Authorized King James Version

And said unto them, I see your father's countenance, that it is not toward me as before; but the God of my father hath been with me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֣אמֶר

H559

And said

to say (used with great latitude)

לָהֶ֗ן

רֹאֶ֤ה

H7200

unto them I see

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אָֽנֹכִי֙

H595

אֶת

H853

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

פְּנֵ֣י

H6440

countenance

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

אָבִ֔י

of my father

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

כִּֽי

H3588

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

אֵינֶ֥נּוּ

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#10

אֵלַ֖י

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#11

כִּתְמֹ֣ל

H8543

that it is not toward me as

properly, ago, i.e., a (short or long) time since; especially yesterday, or day before yesterday

#12

שִׁלְשֹׁ֑ם

H8032

before

trebly, i.e., (in time) day before yesterday

#13

וֵֽאלֹהֵ֣י

H430

but the God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#14

אָבִ֔י

of my father

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

#15

הָיָ֖ה

H1961

hath been

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

#16

עִמָּדִֽי׃

H5978

along with

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. 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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty 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?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 31 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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