Joshua 9:14

Authorized King James Version

And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקְח֥וּ

H3947

took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

הָֽאֲנָשִׁ֖ים

H582

And the men

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

מִצֵּידָ֑ם

H6718

of their victuals

(generally) lunch (especially for a journey)

וְאֶת

H853

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

פִּ֥י

H6310

not counsel at the mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

שָׁאָֽלוּ׃

H7592

and asked

to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine sovereignty contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation 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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