Genesis 45:5

Authorized King James Version

Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְעַתָּ֣ה׀

H6258

at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive

אַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

תֵּעָ֣צְב֗וּ

H6087

Now therefore be not grieved

properly, to carve, i.e., fabricate or fashion

וְאַל

H408

not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing

יִ֙חַר֙

H2734

nor angry

to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy

בְּעֵ֣ינֵיכֶ֔ם

H5869

with yourselves

an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

מְכַרְתֶּ֥ם

H4376

that ye sold

to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender)

אֹתִ֖י

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#10

הֵ֑נָּה

H2008

hither or thither (but used both of place and time)

#11

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#12

לְמִֽחְיָ֔ה

H4241

to preserve life

preservation of life; hence, sustenance; also the live flesh, i.e., the quick

#13

שְׁלָחַ֥נִי

H7971

did send

to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)

#14

אֱלֹהִ֖ים

H430

me hither for God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#15

לִפְנֵיכֶֽם׃

H6440

me before you

the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, 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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of life differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the creation and providence theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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