Genesis 35:7

Authorized King James Version

And he built there an altar, and called the place El-beth-el: because there God appeared unto him, when he fled from the face of his brother.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּ֤בֶן

H1129

And he built

to build (literally and figuratively)

שָׁם֙

H8033

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

מִזְבֵּ֔חַ

H4196

there an altar

an altar

וַיִּקְרָא֙

H7121

and called

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

לַמָּק֔וֹם

H4725

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)

אֵ֖ל

H410

strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)

בֵּֽית

אֵ֑ל

H1008

beth-el, a place in palestine

כִּ֣י

H3588

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

#10

שָׁ֗ם

H8033

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

#11

נִגְל֤וּ

H1540

appeared

to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal

#12

אֵלָיו֙

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#13

הָֽאֱלֹהִ֔ים

H430

because there 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

בְּבָרְח֖וֹ

H1272

unto him when he fled

to bolt, i.e., figuratively, to flee suddenly

#15

מִפְּנֵ֥י

H6440

from the face

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

#16

אָחִֽיו׃

H251

of his brother

a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

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

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

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?

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