Genesis 37:5

Authorized King James Version

And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּֽחֲלֹ֤ם
dreamed
properly, to bind firmly, i.e., (through the figurative sense of dumbness) to dream
#2
יוֹסֵף֙
And Joseph
joseph, the name of seven israelites
#3
חֲל֔וֹם
a dream
a dream
#4
וַיַּגֵּ֖ד
and he told
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#5
לְאֶחָ֑יו
it his brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#6
וַיּוֹסִ֥פוּ
him yet the more
to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)
#7
ע֖וֹד
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#8
שְׂנֹ֥א
and they hated
to hate (personally)
#9
אֹתֽוֹ׃
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 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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