Genesis 44:28

Authorized King James Version

And the one went out from me, and I said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I saw him not since:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֵּצֵ֤א
went out
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#2
הָֽאֶחָד֙
And the one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#3
מֵֽאִתִּ֔י
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
וָֽאֹמַ֕ר
from me and I said
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
אַ֖ךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#6
טֹרָ֑ף
Surely
to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)
#7
טֹרָ֑ף
Surely
to pluck off or pull to pieces; causatively to supply with food (as in morsels)
#8
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
רְאִיתִ֖יו
and I saw him
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#10
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#11
הֵֽנָּה׃
not since
hither or thither (but used both of place and time)

Analysis

The creation and providence theme here intersects with the broader canonical witness to God's character and purposes. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of progressive revelation that finds its culmination in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's consistent character and purposes.

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources