Genesis 42:14

Authorized King James Version

And Joseph said unto them, That is it that I spake unto you, saying, Ye are spies:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֵאמֹ֖ר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
אֲלֵהֶ֖ם
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
יוֹסֵ֑ף
And Joseph
joseph, the name of seven israelites
#4
ה֗וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#5
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי
unto them That is it that I spake
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#7
אֲלֵכֶ֛ם
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
לֵאמֹ֖ר
said
to say (used with great latitude)
#9
מְרַגְּלִ֥ים
Ye are spies
to walk along; but only in specifically, applications, to reconnoiter, to be a tale-bearer (i.e., slander); to lead about
#10
אַתֶּֽם׃
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you

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

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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