Genesis 35:20

Authorized King James Version

And Jacob set a pillar upon her grave: that is the pillar of Rachel's grave unto this day.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּצֵּ֧ב
set
to station, in various applications (literally or figuratively)
#2
יַֽעֲקֹ֛ב
And Jacob
jaakob, the israelitish patriarch
#3
מַצֵּבָ֖ה
a pillar
something stationed, i.e., a column or (memorial stone); by analogy, an idol
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
קְבֻֽרַת
grave
sepulture; (concretely) a sepulcher
#6
הִ֛וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#7
מַצֶּ֥בֶת
that is the pillar
something stationary, i.e., a monumental stone; also the stock of a tree
#8
קְבֻֽרַת
grave
sepulture; (concretely) a sepulcher
#9
רָחֵ֖ל
of Rachel's
rachel, a wife of jacob
#10
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#11
הַיּֽוֹם׃
unto this day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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