Genesis 49:12

Authorized King James Version

His eyes shall be red with wine, and his teeth white with milk.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
חַכְלִילִ֥י
shall be red
darkly flashing (only of the eyes); in a good sense, brilliant (as stimulated by wine)
#2
עֵינַ֖יִם
His eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#3
מִיָּ֑יִן
with wine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#4
וּלְבֶן
white
white
#5
שִׁנַּ֖יִם
and his teeth
a tooth (as sharp); specifically ivory; figuratively, a cliff
#6
מֵֽחָלָֽב׃
with milk
milk (as the richness of kine)

Analysis

This verse develops the creation and providence theme central to Genesis. The concept of divine revelation reflects God's absolute sovereignty over all existence. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to foundational narrative establishing God's relationship with creation and humanity, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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