Judges 20:9

Authorized King James Version

But now this shall be the thing which we will do to Gibeah; we will go up by lot against it;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֕ה
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
זֶ֣ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#3
הַדָּבָ֔ר
But now this shall be the thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#4
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#5
נַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
which we will do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
לַגִּבְעָ֑ה
to Gibeah
gibah; the name of three places in palestine
#7
עָלֶ֖יהָ
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
בְּגוֹרָֽל׃
we will go up by lot
properly, a pebble, i.e., a lot (small stones being used for that purpose); figuratively, a portion or destiny (as if determined by lot)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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