Judges 5:10

Authorized King James Version

Speak, ye that ride on white asses, ye that sit in judgment, and walk by the way.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
רֹֽכְבֵי֩
ye that ride
to ride (on an animal or in a vehicle); causatively, to place upon (for riding or generally), to despatch
#2
אֲתֹנ֨וֹת
asses
a female donkey (from its docility)
#3
צְחֹר֜וֹת
on white
white
#4
יֹֽשְׁבֵ֧י
ye that sit
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#5
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
מִדִּ֛ין
in judgment
properly, extent, i.e., height; also a measure; by implication, a vesture (as measured); also a carpet
#7
וְהֹֽלְכֵ֥י
and walk
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#8
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
דֶּ֖רֶךְ
by the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#10
שִֽׂיחוּ׃
Speak
to ponder, i.e., (by implication) converse (with oneself, and hence, aloud) or (transitively) utter

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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