Judges 4:8

Authorized King James Version

And Barak said unto her, If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me, then I will not go.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיֹּ֤אמֶר

H559

said

to say (used with great latitude)

אֵלֶ֙יהָ֙

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

בָּרָ֔ק

H1301

And Barak

barak, an israelite

אִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

אֵלֵֽךְ׃

H1980

with me then I will go

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

עִמִּ֖י

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

אֵלֵֽךְ׃

H1980

with me then I will go

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

וְאִם

H518

used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#10

אֵלֵֽךְ׃

H1980

with me then I will go

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

#11

עִמִּ֖י

H5973

adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then

#12

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#13

אֵלֵֽךְ׃

H1980

with me then I will go

to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Judges Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Judges chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources

Biblical Maps