Nehemiah 2:14

Authorized King James Version

Then I went on to the gate of the fountain, and to the king's pool: but there was no place for the beast that was under me to pass.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לַֽעֲבֹ֥ר
Then I went on
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
שַׁ֣עַר
to the gate
an opening, i.e., door or gate
#4
הָעַ֔יִן
of the fountain
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#5
וְאֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
בְּרֵכַ֖ת
pool
a reservoir (at which camels kneel as a resting-place)
#7
הַמֶּ֑לֶךְ
and to the king's
a king
#8
וְאֵין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#9
מָק֥וֹם
but there was no place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#10
לַבְּהֵמָ֖ה
for the beast
properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)
#11
לַֽעֲבֹ֥ר
Then I went on
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#12
תַּחְתָּֽי׃
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc

Analysis

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

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection