Judges 9:56

Authorized King James Version

Thus God rendered the wickedness of Abimelech, which he did unto his father, in slaying his seventy brethren:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֣שֶׁב
rendered
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#2
אֱלֹהִ֔ים
Thus God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#3
אֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
רָעַ֣ת
the wickedness
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#5
אֲבִימֶ֑לֶךְ
H40
of Abimelech
abimelek, the name of two philistine kings and of two israelites
#6
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#7
עָשָׂה֙
which he did
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#8
לְאָבִ֔יו
H1
unto his father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#9
לַֽהֲרֹ֖ג
in slaying
to smite with deadly intent
#10
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
שִׁבְעִ֥ים
his seventy
seventy
#12
אֶחָֽיו׃
brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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