Judges 3:23

Authorized King James Version

Then Ehud went forth through the porch, and shut the doors of the parlour upon him, and locked them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֵּצֵ֥א
went forth
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#2
אֵה֖וּד
Then Ehud
ehud, the name of two or three israelites
#3
הַֽמִּסְדְּר֑וֹנָה
through the porch
a colonnade or internal portico (from its rows of pillars)
#4
וַיִּסְגֹּ֞ר
and shut
to shut up; figuratively, to surrender
#5
דַּלְת֧וֹת
the doors
something swinging, i.e., the valve of a door
#6
הָֽעֲלִיָּ֛ה
of the parlour
something lofty, i.e., a stair-way; also a second-story room (or even one on the roof); figuratively, the sky
#7
בַּֽעֲד֖וֹ
in up to or over against; generally at, beside, among, behind, for, etc
#8
וְנָעָֽל׃
upon him and locked
properly, to fasten up, i.e., with a bar or cord; hence, to sandal, i.e., furnish with slippers

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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