Genesis 31:6

Authorized King James Version

And ye know that with all my power I have served your father.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאַתֵּ֖נָה
And ye
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#2
יְדַעְתֶּ֑ן
know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#3
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
כֹּחִ֔י
that with all my power
vigor, literally (force, in a good or a bad sense) or figuratively (capacity, means, produce)
#6
עָבַ֖דְתִּי
I have served
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
אֲבִיכֶֽן׃
H1
your father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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