Judges 1:25

Authorized King James Version

And when he shewed them the entrance into the city, they smote the city with the edge of the sword; but they let go the man and all his family.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיַּרְאֵם֙

H7200

And when he shewed

to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

אֶת

H853

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

מְב֣וֹא

H3996

them the entrance

an entrance (the place or the act); specifically sunset or the west; also (adverb with preposition) towards

הָעִ֖יר

H5892

into the city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

וַיַּכּ֥וּ

H5221

they smote

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

אֶת

H853

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

הָעִ֖יר

H5892

into the city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

לְפִי

H6310

with the edge

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

חָ֑רֶב

H2719

of the sword

drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

#10

וְאֶת

H853

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

#11

הָאִ֥ישׁ

H376

the man

a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)

#12

וְאֶת

H853

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

#13

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#14

מִשְׁפַּחְתּ֖וֹ

H4940

and all his family

a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people

#15

שִׁלֵּֽחוּ׃

H7971

but they let go

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to Judges's theological argument.

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

How does this verse's literary context within Judges chapter 1 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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