Genesis 41:24

Authorized King James Version

And the thin ears devoured the seven good ears: and I told this unto the magicians; but there was none that could declare it to me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַתִּבְלַ֙עְןָ֙

H1104

devoured

to make away with (specifically by swallowing); generally, to destroy

הַֽשִׁבֳּלִ֖ים

H7641

ears

a stream (as flowing); also an ear of grain (as growing out); by analogy, a branch

הַדַּקֹּ֔ת

H1851

And the thin

crushed, i.e., (by implication) small or thin

אֵ֛ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

שֶׁ֥בַע

H7651

the seven

seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number

הַֽשִׁבֳּלִ֖ים

H7641

ears

a stream (as flowing); also an ear of grain (as growing out); by analogy, a branch

הַטֹּב֑וֹת

H2896

good

good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good

וָֽאֹמַר֙

H559

and I told

to say (used with great latitude)

אֶל

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

#10

הַֽחַרְטֻמִּ֔ים

H2748

this unto the magicians

a horoscopist (as drawing magical lines or circles)

#11

וְאֵ֥ין

H369

a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle

#12

מַגִּ֖יד

H5046

but there was none that could declare

properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to

#13

לִֽי׃

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

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 revelation. 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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about creation and providence?
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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