Genesis 41:13

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass, as he interpreted to us, so it was; me he restored unto mine office, and him he hanged.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְהִ֛י
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
פָּֽתַר
And it came to pass as he interpreted
to open up, i.e., (figuratively) interpret (a dream)
#4
לָ֖נוּ
H0
#5
כֵּ֣ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#6
הָיָ֑ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
אֹתִ֛י
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
הֵשִׁ֥יב
to us so it was me he restored
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#9
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
כַּנִּ֖י
unto mine office
a stand, i.e., pedestal or station
#11
וְאֹת֥וֹ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
תָלָֽה׃
and him he hanged
to suspend (especially to gibbet)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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