Genesis 43:27

Authorized King James Version

And he asked them of their welfare, and said, Is your father well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁאַ֤ל
And he asked
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
#2
לָהֶם֙
H0
#3
הֲשָׁל֛וֹם
them of their welfare
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
#4
אֲמַרְתֶּ֑ם
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
הֲשָׁל֛וֹם
them of their welfare
safe, i.e., (figuratively) well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e., health, prosperity, peace
#6
אֲבִיכֶ֥ם
H1
Is your father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#7
הַזָּקֵ֖ן
the old man
old
#8
אֲשֶׁ֣ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#9
אֲמַרְתֶּ֑ם
and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#10
הַֽעוֹדֶ֖נּוּ
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#11
חָֽי׃
Is he yet alive
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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