Judges 2:13

Authorized King James Version

And they forsook the LORD, and served Baal and Ashtaroth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּֽעַזְב֖וּ
And they forsook
to loosen, i.e., relinquish, permit, etc
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
יְהוָ֑ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
וַיַּֽעַבְד֥וּ
and served
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#5
לַבַּ֖עַל
Baal
baal, a phoenician deity
#6
וְלָֽעַשְׁתָּרֽוֹת׃
and Ashtaroth
ashtaroth, the name of a sidonian deity, and of a place east of the jordan

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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