Judges 21:4

Authorized King James Version

And it came to pass on the morrow, that the people rose early, and built there an altar, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיְהִי֙
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
מִֽמָּחֳרָ֔ת
And it came to pass on the morrow
the morrow or (adverbially) tomorrow
#3
וַיַּשְׁכִּ֣ימוּ
rose early
literally, to load up (on the back of man or beast), i.e., to start early in the morning
#4
הָעָ֔ם
that the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#5
וַיִּבְנוּ
and built
to build (literally and figuratively)
#6
שָׁ֖ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#7
מִזְבֵּ֑חַ
there an altar
an altar
#8
וַיַּֽעֲל֥וּ
and offered
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#9
עֹל֖וֹת
burnt offerings
a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
#10
וּשְׁלָמִֽים׃
and peace offerings
properly, requital, i.e., a (voluntary) sacrifice in thanks

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Judges. The concept of peace 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood peace. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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