Judges 21:9

Authorized King James Version

For the people were numbered, and, behold, there were none of the inhabitants of Jabesh-gilead there.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּתְפָּקֵ֖ד
were numbered
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
#2
הָעָ֑ם
For the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
וְהִנֵּ֤ה
lo!
#4
אֵֽין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#5
שָׁם֙
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#6
אִ֔ישׁ
and behold there were none
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#7
מִיּֽוֹשְׁבֵ֖י
of the inhabitants
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#8
יָבֵ֥שׁ
of Jabeshgilead
jobesh, the name of an israelite and of a place in palestine
#9
גִּלְעָֽד׃
gilad, a region east of the jordan; also the name of three israelites

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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