Joshua 24:12

Authorized King James Version

And I sent the hornet before you, which drave them out from before you, even the two kings of the Amorites; but not with thy sword, nor with thy bow.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וָֽאֶשְׁלַ֤ח
And I sent
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#2
מִפְּנֵיכֶ֔ם
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַצִּרְעָ֔ה
the hornet
a wasp (as stinging)
#5
וַתְּגָ֤רֶשׁ
you which drave them out
to drive out from a possession; especially to expatriate or divorce
#6
אוֹתָם֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
מִפְּנֵיכֶ֔ם
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#8
שְׁנֵ֖י
you even the two
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#9
מַלְכֵ֣י
kings
a king
#10
הָֽאֱמֹרִ֑י
of the Amorites
an emorite, one of the canaanitish tribes
#11
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#12
בְחַרְבְּךָ֖
but not with thy sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#13
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
בְקַשְׁתֶּֽךָ׃
nor with thy bow
a bow, for shooting (hence, figuratively, strength) or the iris

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Joshua. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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