Judges 21:20

Authorized King James Version

Therefore they commanded the children of Benjamin, saying, Go and lie in wait in the vineyards;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיצַוֻּ֕
Therefore they commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
בְּנֵ֥י
the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#4
בִנְיָמִ֖ן
of Benjamin
binjamin, youngest son of jacob; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
#5
לֵאמֹ֑ר
saying
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
לְכ֖וּ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#7
וַֽאֲרַבְתֶּ֥ם
and lie in wait
to lurk
#8
בַּכְּרָמִֽים׃
in the vineyards
a garden or vineyard

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Judges. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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