Judges 14:8

Authorized King James Version

And after a time he returned to take her, and he turned aside to see the carcase of the lion: and, behold, there was a swarm of bees and honey in the carcase of the lion.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֤שָׁב
he returned
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#2
מִיָּמִים֙
And after a time
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#3
לְקַחְתָּ֔הּ
to take
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#4
וַיָּ֣סַר
her and he turned aside
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#5
לִרְא֔וֹת
to see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#6
אֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
מַפֶּ֣לֶת
the carcase
fall, i.e., decadence; concretely, a ruin; specifically a carcase
#8
הָֽאַרְיֵ֖ה
of the lion
a lion
#9
וְהִנֵּ֨ה
lo!
#10
עֲדַ֧ת
and behold there was a swarm
a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
#11
דְּבוֹרִ֛ים
of bees
the bee (from its systematic instincts)
#12
בִּגְוִיַּ֥ת
in the carcase
a body, whether alive or dead
#13
הָֽאַרְיֵ֖ה
of the lion
a lion
#14
וּדְבָֽשׁ׃
and honey
honey (from its stickiness); by analogy, syrup

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Judges.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Judges Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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