Genesis 37:19

Authorized King James Version

And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּֽאמְר֖וּ
And they said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
אִ֣ישׁ
one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
אָחִ֑יו
to another
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#5
הִנֵּ֗ה
lo!
#6
בַּ֛עַל
dreamer
a master; hence, a husband, or (figuratively) owner (often used with another noun in modifications of this latter sense)
#7
הַֽחֲלֹמ֥וֹת
a dream
#8
הַלָּזֶ֖ה
Behold this
this very
#9
בָּֽא׃
cometh
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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