Genesis 32:19

Authorized King James Version

And so commanded he the second, and the third, and all that followed the droves, saying, On this manner shall ye speak unto Esau, when ye find him.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְצַ֞ו

H6680

commanded he

(intensively) to constitute, enjoin

גַּ֚ם

H1571

And so

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

אֶת

H853

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

הַשֵּׁנִ֗י

H8145

the second

properly, double, i.e., second; also adverbially, again

גַּ֚ם

H1571

And so

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

אֶת

H853

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

הַשְּׁלִישִׁ֔י

H7992

and the third

third; feminine a third (part); by extension, a third (day, year or time); specifically, a third-story cell)

גַּ֚ם

H1571

And so

properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and

אֶת

H853

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

#10

כָּל

H3605

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

#11

הַהֹ֣לְכִ֔ים

H1980

and all that followed

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

#12

אַֽחֲרֵ֥י

H310

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

#13

הָֽעֲדָרִ֖ים

H5739

the droves

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

#14

לֵאמֹ֑ר

H559

saying

to say (used with great latitude)

#15

כַּדָּבָ֤ר

H1697

On this manner

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

#16

הַזֶּה֙

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

#17

תְּדַבְּר֣וּן

H1696

shall ye speak

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

#18

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#19

עֵשָׂ֔ו

H6215

unto Esau

esav, a son of isaac, including his posterity

#20

בְּמֹצַֽאֲכֶ֖ם

H4672

when ye find

properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present

#21

אֹתֽוֹ׃

H853

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

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

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?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 32 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline