Judges 5:25

Authorized King James Version

He asked water, and she gave him milk; she brought forth butter in a lordly dish.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מַ֥יִם
water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#2
שָׁאַ֖ל
He asked
to inquire; by implication, to request; by extension, to demand
#3
חָלָ֣ב
him milk
milk (as the richness of kine)
#4
נָתָ֑נָה
and she gave
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#5
בְּסֵ֥פֶל
dish
a basin (as deepened out)
#6
אַדִּירִ֖ים
in a lordly
wide or (generally) large; figuratively, powerful
#7
הִקְרִ֥יבָה
she brought forth
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#8
חֶמְאָֽה׃
butter
curdled milk or cheese

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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