Genesis 38:19

Authorized King James Version

And she arose, and went away, and laid by her vail from her, and put on the garments of her widowhood.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַתָּ֣קָם
And she arose
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#2
וַתֵּ֔לֶךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#3
וַתָּ֥סַר
and laid by
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#4
צְעִיפָ֖הּ
her vail
a veil
#5
מֵֽעָלֶ֑יהָ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
וַתִּלְבַּ֖שׁ
from her and put on
properly, wrap around, i.e., (by implication) to put on a garment or clothe (oneself, or another), literally or figuratively
#7
בִּגְדֵ֥י
the garments
a covering, i.e., clothing
#8
אַלְמְנוּתָֽהּ׃
of her widowhood
concrete, a widow; abstract, widowhood

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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