Genesis 44:3

Authorized King James Version

As soon as the morning was light, the men were sent away, they and their asses.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַבֹּ֖קֶר
As soon as the morning
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
#2
א֑וֹר
was light
to be (causative, make) luminous (literally and metaphorically)
#3
וְהָֽאֲנָשִׁ֣ים
the men
properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)
#4
שֻׁלְּח֔וּ
were sent away
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#5
הֵ֖מָּה
they (only used when emphatic)
#6
וַחֲמֹֽרֵיהֶֽם׃
they and their asses
a male ass (from its dun red)

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