Genesis 35:15

Authorized King James Version

And Jacob called the name of the place where God spake with him, Beth-el.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקְרָ֨א

H7121

called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

יַֽעֲקֹ֜ב

H3290

And Jacob

jaakob, the israelitish patriarch

אֶת

H853

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

שֵׁ֣ם

H8034

the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הַמָּק֗וֹם

H4725

of the place

properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)

אֲשֶׁר֩

H834

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

דִּבֶּ֨ר

H1696

spake

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

אִתּ֥וֹ

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

שָׁ֛ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

#10

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

where 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

#11

בֵּֽית

#12

אֵֽל׃

H1008

with him Bethel

beth-el, a place in palestine

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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 passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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