Genesis 44:9

Authorized King James Version

With whomsoever of thy servants it be found, both let him die, and we also will be my lord's bondmen.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#2
יִמָּצֵ֥א
it be found
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
#3
אִתּ֛וֹ
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#4
לַֽעֲבָדִֽים׃
With whomsoever of thy servants
a servant
#5
וָמֵ֑ת
both let him die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#6
וְגַם
properly, assemblage; used only adverbially also, even, yea, though; often repeated as correl. both...and
#7
אֲנַ֕חְנוּ
we
#8
נִֽהְיֶ֥ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#9
לַֽאדֹנִ֖י
and we also will be my lord's
sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)
#10
לַֽעֲבָדִֽים׃
With whomsoever of thy servants
a servant

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 sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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