1 Kings 17:12
1 Kings 17:12 in Multiple Translations
But she replied, “As surely as the LORD your God lives, I have no bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. Look, I am gathering a couple of sticks to take home and prepare a meal for myself and my son, so that we may eat it and die.”
And she said, As the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.
And she said, As Jehovah thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but a handful of meal in the jar, and a little oil in the cruse: and, behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.
Then she said, By the life of the Lord your God, I have nothing but a little meal in my store, and a drop of oil in the bottle; and now I am getting two sticks together so that I may go in and make it ready for me and my son, so that we may have a meal before our death.
She replied, “As the Lord your God lives, I have no bread, only a handful of flour is left in a jar and a little bit of olive oil in a jug. Right now I am gathering a few sticks so I can go and cook what's left for myself and my son so we can eat it, and then we'll die.”
And shee sayde, As the Lord thy God liueth, I haue not a cake, but euen an handfull of meale in a barrel, and a litle oyle in a cruse: and behold, I am gathering a fewe stickes for to go in, and dresse it for me and my sonne, that we may eate it, and dye.
And she saith, 'Jehovah thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but the fulness of the hand of meal in a pitcher, and a little oil in a dish; and lo, I am gathering two sticks, and have gone in and prepared it for myself, and for my son, and we have eaten it — and died.'
She said, “As the LORD your God lives, I don’t have anything baked, but only a handful of meal in a jar and a little oil in a jar. Behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and bake it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.”
And she said, As the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but a handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and behold, I am gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.
And she answered: As the Lord thy God liveth, I have no bread, but only a handful of meal in a pot, and a little oil in a cruse: behold I am gathering two sticks that I may go in and dress it, for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.
But she replied, “Your God knows that what I am telling you is true: I do not have even one piece of bread in my house. I have only a handful of flour in a jar, and a little olive oil in a jug. I was gathering a few sticks to use these to make a fire and cook one more meal, and then after my son and I eat that, we will die from hunger.”
Berean Amplified Bible — 1 Kings 17:12
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
1 Kings 17:12 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר
חַי
יְהוָ֤ה
אֱלֹהֶ֨י/ךָ֙
אִם
יֶשׁ
לִ֣/י
מָע֔וֹג
כִּ֣י
אִם
מְלֹ֤א
כַף
קֶ֨מַח֙
בַּ/כַּ֔ד
וּ/מְעַט
שֶׁ֖מֶן
בַּ/צַּפָּ֑חַת
וְ/הִנְ/נִ֨י
מְקֹשֶׁ֜שֶׁת
שְׁנַ֣יִם
עֵצִ֗ים
וּ/בָ֨אתִי֙
וַ/עֲשִׂיתִ֨י/הוּ֙
לִ֣/י
וְ/לִ/בְנִ֔/י
וַ/אֲכַלְנֻ֖/הוּ
וָ/מָֽתְנוּ
וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
חַי
chay
H2416
alive
Adj
יְהוָ֤ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
The Lord
N-proper
אֱלֹהֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
God
N-mp | Suff
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
יֶשׁ
yêsh
H3426
there
Part
לִ֣/י
Prep | Suff
מָע֔וֹג
mâʻôwg
H4580
bun
N-ms
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
אִם
ʼim
H518
if
Conj
מְלֹ֤א
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
fullness
N-ms
כַף
kaph
H3709
palm
N-fs
קֶ֨מַח֙
qemach
H7058
flour
N-ms
בַּ/כַּ֔ד
kad
H3537
jar
Prep | N-fs
וּ/מְעַט
mᵉʻaṭ
H4592
little
Conj | N-ms
שֶׁ֖מֶן
shemen
H8081
oil
N-ms
בַּ/צַּפָּ֑חַת
tsappachath
H6835
jar
Prep | N-fs
וְ/הִנְ/נִ֨י
hên
H2005
look!
Conj | Part | Suff
מְקֹשֶׁ֜שֶׁת
qâshash
H7197
to gather
V-m
שְׁנַ֣יִם
shᵉnayim
H8147
two
Adj
עֵצִ֗ים
ʻêts
H6086
tree
N-mp
וּ/בָ֨אתִי֙
bôwʼ
H935
Lebo
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs
וַ/עֲשִׂיתִ֨י/הוּ֙
ʻâsâh
H6213
to make
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs | Suff
לִ֣/י
Prep | Suff
וְ/לִ/בְנִ֔/י
bên
H1121
son
Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff
וַ/אֲכַלְנֻ֖/הוּ
ʼâkal
H398
to eat
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cp | Suff
וָ/מָֽתְנוּ
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-1cp
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — 1 Kings 17:12
וַ/תֹּ֗אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3fs
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
חַי
chay
H2416
"alive"
Adj
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
יְהוָ֤ה
Yᵉhôvâh
H3068
"The Lord"
N-proper
Yehovah is another name for God, often translated as 'the Lord'. It is a national name for God in the Jewish faith. This name is used throughout the Old Testament.
Definition: Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 5522 OT verses. KJV: Jehovah, the Lord. Compare H3050 (יָהּ), H3069 (יְהֹוִה). See also: Genesis 2:4; Genesis 24:42; Exodus 8:8.
אֱלֹהֶ֨י/ךָ֙
ʼĕlôhîym
H430
"God"
N-mp | Suff
The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.
Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
יֶשׁ
yêsh
H3426
"there"
Part
This Hebrew word means 'there is' or 'there are', used to show existence or being. It appears in various forms, like 'to be' or 'to have'. In the Bible, it's used in Genesis and Psalms to describe God's presence.
Definition: 1) being, existence, substance, there is or are 1a) substance 1b) existence 1c) there is or are Aramaic equivalent: i.tay (אִיתַי "there is" H0383)
Usage: Occurs in 129 OT verses. KJV: (there) are, (he, it, shall, there, there may, there shall, there should) be, thou do, had, hast, (which) hath, (I, shalt, that) have, (he, it, there) is, substance, it (there) was, (there) were, ye will, thou wilt, wouldest. See also: Genesis 18:24; Nehemiah 5:2; Psalms 7:4.
לִ֣/י
""
Prep | Suff
מָע֔וֹג
mâʻôwg
H4580
"bun"
N-ms
A cake of bread, like a sweet bun, is what this Hebrew word describes, also referring to a parasite or feast in the Bible.
Definition: cake
Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: cake, feast. See also: 1 Kings 17:12; Psalms 35:16.
כִּ֣י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
אִם
ʼim
H518
"if"
Conj
This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.
Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather
Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.
מְלֹ֤א
mᵉlôʼ
H4393
"fullness"
N-ms
Fullness means having everything that is needed, like a full container or a complete amount. It can also mean a large quantity, like a multitude of things.
Definition: 1) fulness, that which fills 1a) fulness, handful 1b) mass, multitude 1c) fulness, that which fills, entire contents 1d) full length, full line
Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] all along, [idiom] all that is (there-) in, fill, ([idiom] that whereof...was) full, fulness, (hand-) full, multitude. See also: Genesis 48:19; Psalms 89:12; Psalms 24:1.
כַף
kaph
H3709
"palm"
N-fs
In the Bible, this word refers to the palm of the hand, like in Exodus 29 where it describes the priest's hands being filled with offerings. It can also symbolize power or strength, like in Psalm 16. It's about the hand or its shape.
Definition: : palm/hand 1) palm, hand, sole, palm of the hand, hollow or flat of the hand 1a) palm, hollow or flat of the hand 1b) power 1c) sole (of the foot) 1d) hollow, objects, bending objects, bent objects 1d1) of thigh-joint 1d2) pan, vessel (as hollow) 1d3) hollow (of sling) 1d4) hand-shaped branches or fronds (of palm trees) 1d5) handles (as bent)
Usage: Occurs in 180 OT verses. KJV: branch, [phrase] foot, hand((-ful), -dle, (-led)), hollow, middle, palm, paw, power, sole, spoon. See also: Genesis 8:9; 2 Chronicles 6:13; Psalms 7:4.
קֶ֨מַח֙
qemach
H7058
"flour"
N-ms
In the Bible, qemach refers to flour, like the kind used to make bread, as seen in recipes and stories throughout the Old Testament. It is often translated as flour or meal. This word is used in various contexts, including food preparation and rituals.
Definition: flour, meal, meal flour
Usage: Occurs in 14 OT verses. KJV: flour, meal. See also: Genesis 18:6; 1 Kings 17:12; Isaiah 47:2.
בַּ/כַּ֔ד
kad
H3537
"jar"
Prep | N-fs
A jar is a container made of clay, used for storing liquids or foods. In Mark 14:13, Jesus sends His disciples to find a man carrying a jar of water. This word is also used in Luke 22:10 to describe a container for water.
Definition: jar, large jar (portable)
Usage: Occurs in 17 OT verses. KJV: barrel, pitcher. See also: Genesis 24:14; Genesis 24:46; Ecclesiastes 12:6.
וּ/מְעַט
mᵉʻaṭ
H4592
"little"
Conj | N-ms
This Hebrew word means something is small or little in amount, like a few people or a short time. It appears in various Bible translations as almost, few, or small. In the Bible, it often describes something that is limited or lacking.
Definition: 1) littleness, few, a little, fewness 1a) little, small, littleness, fewness, too little, yet a little 1b) like a little, within a little, almost, just, hardly, shortly, little worth
Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: almost (some, very) few(-er, -est), lightly, little (while), (very) small (matter, thing), some, soon, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 18:4; Job 15:11; Psalms 2:12.
שֶׁ֖מֶן
shemen
H8081
"oil"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for oil, often referring to olive oil, which was highly valued in ancient times. It symbolizes richness, anointing, and healing, and is used in various biblical contexts, including rituals and medicinal practices.
Definition: 1) fat, oil 1a) fat, fatness 1b) oil, olive oil 1b1) as staple, medicament or unguent 1b2) for anointing 1c) fat (of fruitful land, valleys) (metaph)
Usage: Occurs in 176 OT verses. KJV: anointing, [idiom] fat (things), [idiom] fruitful, oil(-ed), ointment, olive, [phrase] pine. See also: Genesis 28:18; Deuteronomy 8:8; Psalms 23:5.
בַּ/צַּפָּ֑חַת
tsappachath
H6835
"jar"
Prep | N-fs
This word refers to a flat jar or jug used for liquids, like a cruse, as mentioned in 1 Kings 17:12.
Definition: jar, jug (for liquids)
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: cruse. See also: 1 Samuel 26:11; 1 Kings 17:12; 1 Kings 19:6.
וְ/הִנְ/נִ֨י
hên
H2005
"look!"
Conj | Part | Suff
An expression meaning look or behold, used to get someone's attention, like in the prophet Isaiah's writings. It can also express surprise or introduce a hypothetical situation.
Definition: interj 1) behold, lo, though hypothetical part 2) if Aramaic equivalent: hen (הֵן "look!" H2006A)
Usage: Occurs in 311 OT verses. KJV: behold, if, lo, though. See also: Genesis 3:22; Job 2:6; Psalms 51:7.
מְקֹשֶׁ֜שֶׁת
qâshash
H7197
"to gather"
V-m
This verb means to gather or assemble, like when the Israelites gathered straw in Exodus 5:7-12. It can also mean to forage for materials. The KJV translates it as gather.
Definition: to gather, collect, gather stubble or sticks
Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: gather (selves) (together). See also: Exodus 5:7; Numbers 15:33; Zephaniah 2:1.
שְׁנַ֣יִם
shᵉnayim
H8147
"two"
Adj
The Hebrew word for the number two appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing pairs and dualities. It can also mean double or twice. In the Bible, it is often used to describe things that come in twos, like two witnesses or two tablets.
Definition: 1) two 1a) two (the cardinal number) 1a1) two, both, double, twice 1b) second (the ordinal number) 1c) in combination with other numbers 1d) both (a dual number)
Usage: Occurs in 646 OT verses. KJV: both, couple, double, second, twain, [phrase] twelfth, [phrase] twelve, [phrase] twenty (sixscore) thousand, twice, two. See also: Genesis 1:16; Exodus 30:4; Numbers 13:23.
עֵצִ֗ים
ʻêts
H6086
"tree"
N-mp
This Hebrew word for tree or wood refers to a strong and firm object, like a tree or a wooden plank, as seen in the carpentry work of Jesus' earthly father Joseph in Matthew 13:55.
Definition: : wood 1) tree, wood, timber, stock, plank, stalk, stick, gallows 1a) tree, trees 1b) wood, pieces of wood, gallows, firewood, cedar-wood, woody flax
Usage: Occurs in 289 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] carpenter, gallows, helve, [phrase] pine, plank, staff, stalk, stick, stock, timber, tree, wood. See also: Genesis 1:11; Joshua 9:23; Psalms 1:3.
וּ/בָ֨אתִי֙
bôwʼ
H935
"Lebo"
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs
This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.
Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter
Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.
וַ/עֲשִׂיתִ֨י/הוּ֙
ʻâsâh
H6213
"to make"
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cs | Suff
This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.
Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made
Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.
לִ֣/י
""
Prep | Suff
וְ/לִ/בְנִ֔/י
bên
H1121
"son"
Conj | Prep | N-ms | Suff
In the Bible, this word means a son or descendant, and can also refer to a grandson, nation, or quality. It appears in 1 Chronicles 24, describing a Levite named Beno. The word is used to show family relationships and inheritance.
Definition: : child/son
Usage: Occurs in 3653 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] afflicted, age, (Ahoh-) (Ammon-) (Hachmon-) (Lev-) ite, (anoint-) ed one, appointed to, ([phrase]) arrow, (Assyr-) (Babylon-) (Egypt-) (Grec-) ian, one born, bough, branch, breed, [phrase] (young) bullock, [phrase] (young) calf, [idiom] came up in, child, colt, [idiom] common, [idiom] corn, daughter, [idiom] of first, [phrase] firstborn, foal, [phrase] very fruitful, [phrase] postage, [idiom] in, [phrase] kid, [phrase] lamb, ([phrase]) man, meet, [phrase] mighty, [phrase] nephew, old, ([phrase]) people, [phrase] rebel, [phrase] robber, [idiom] servant born, [idiom] soldier, son, [phrase] spark, [phrase] steward, [phrase] stranger, [idiom] surely, them of, [phrase] tumultuous one, [phrase] valiant(-est), whelp, worthy, young (one), youth. See also: Genesis 3:16; Genesis 23:3; Genesis 34:18.
וַ/אֲכַלְנֻ֖/הוּ
ʼâkal
H398
"to eat"
Conj | V-Qal-Perf-1cp | Suff
This word means to eat or devour, and it's used in many stories, including when Jesus fed the 5000 with fish and bread in the book of Matthew. It's about taking in nourishment and being satisfied.
Definition: 1) to eat, devour, burn up, feed 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to eat (human subject) 1a2) to eat, devour (of beasts and birds) 1a3) to devour, consume (of fire) 1a4) to devour, slay (of sword) 1a5) to devour, consume, destroy (inanimate subjects - ie, pestilence, drought) 1a6) to devour (of oppression) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be eaten (by men) 1b2) to be devoured, consumed (of fire) 1b3) to be wasted, destroyed (of flesh) 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to cause to eat, feed with 1c2) to cause to devour 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to feed 1d2) to cause to eat 1e) (Piel) 1e1) consume Aramaic equivalent: a.khal (אֲכַל "to devour" H0399)
Usage: Occurs in 703 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, burn up, consume, devour(-er, up), dine, eat(-er, up), feed (with), food, [idiom] freely, [idiom] in...wise(-deed, plenty), (lay) meat, [idiom] quite. See also: Genesis 2:16; Leviticus 6:9; Numbers 24:8.
וָ/מָֽתְנוּ
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-1cp
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
Study Notes — 1 Kings 17:12
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- 1 Kings 17:12 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 17:12
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 17:12
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
- Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
- Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
- Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 17:12
- Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 17:12
- Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
- Sermons on 1 Kings 17:12
Context — The Widow of Zarephath
10So Elijah got up and went to Zarephath. When he arrived at the city gate, there was a widow gathering sticks. Elijah called to her and said, “Please bring me a little water in a cup, so that I may drink.”
11And as she was going to get it, he called to her and said, “Please bring me a piece of bread.”
12But she replied, “As surely as the LORD your God lives, I have no bread—only a handful of flour in a jar and a little oil in a jug. Look, I am gathering a couple of sticks to take home and prepare a meal for myself and my son, so that we may eat it and die.”
13“Do not be afraid,” Elijah said to her. “Go and do as you have said. But first make me a small cake of bread from what you have, and bring it out to me. Afterward, make some for yourself and your son, 14for this is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: ‘The jar of flour will not be exhausted and the jug of oil will not run dry until the day the LORD sends rain upon the face of the earth.’”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 15:33–34 | The disciples replied, “Where in this desolate place could we find enough bread to feed such a large crowd?” “How many loaves do you have?” Jesus asked. “Seven,” they replied, “and a few small fish.” |
| 2 | 1 Kings 17:1 | Now Elijah the Tishbite, who was among the settlers of Gilead, said to Ahab, “As surely as the LORD lives—the God of Israel before whom I stand—there will be neither dew nor rain in these years except at my word!” |
| 3 | Genesis 21:16 | Then she went off and sat down nearby, about a bowshot away, for she said, “I cannot bear to watch the boy die!” And as she sat nearby, she lifted up her voice and wept. |
| 4 | Ezekiel 12:18–19 | “Son of man, eat your bread with trembling, and drink your water with quivering and anxiety. Then tell the people of the land that this is what the Lord GOD says about those living in Jerusalem and in the land of Israel: ‘They will eat their bread with anxiety and drink their water in dread, for their land will be stripped of everything in it because of the violence of all who dwell in it. |
| 5 | 2 Kings 4:2–7 | “How can I help you?” asked Elisha. “Tell me, what do you have in the house?” She answered, “Your servant has nothing in the house but a jar of oil.” “Go,” said Elisha, “borrow jars, even empty ones, from all your neighbors. Do not gather just a few. Then go inside, shut the door behind you and your sons, and pour oil into all these jars, setting the full ones aside.” So she left him, and after she had shut the door behind her and her sons, they kept bringing jars to her, and she kept pouring. When all the jars were full, she said to her son, “Bring me another.” But he replied, “There are no more jars.” Then the oil stopped flowing. She went and told the man of God, and he said, “Go, sell the oil, and pay your debt. Then you and your sons can live on the remainder.” |
| 6 | Jeremiah 14:18 | If I go out to the country, I see those slain by the sword; if I enter the city, I see those ravaged by famine! For both prophet and priest travel to a land they do not know.’” |
| 7 | 1 Samuel 14:39 | As surely as the LORD who saves Israel lives, even if it is my son Jonathan, he must die!” But not one of the troops said a word. |
| 8 | 1 Samuel 20:21 | Then I will send a boy and say, ‘Go, find the arrows!’ Now, if I expressly say to him, ‘Look, the arrows are on this side of you; bring them,’ then come, because as surely as the LORD lives, it is safe for you and there is no danger. |
| 9 | 1 Samuel 25:26 | Now, my lord, as surely as the LORD lives and you yourself live, the LORD has held you back from coming to bloodshed and avenging yourself with your own hand. May your enemies and those who seek harm for my lord be like Nabal. |
| 10 | 1 Samuel 26:10 | David added, “As surely as the LORD lives, the LORD Himself will strike him down; either his day will come and he will die, or he will go into battle and perish. |
1 Kings 17:12 Summary
[The widow in 1 Kings 17:12 is being completely honest with Elijah when she says she has no bread, only a little flour and oil, and is preparing a last meal for herself and her son. She is trusting in God's care, even in the midst of great need, as seen in Psalm 23:1-4. This shows that even when we feel like we have nothing, God can still provide for us, as promised in Philippians 4:19. By trusting in God's daily provision, like the widow, we can experience His care and love, even in difficult circumstances.]
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the widow's response to Elijah in 1 Kings 17:12?
The widow's response shows her honesty and desperation, as she is willing to share her last meal with Elijah, trusting in the God of Israel, as seen in her statement 'As surely as the LORD your God lives' (1 Kings 17:12), similar to the faith of the Israelites in Exodus 3:15.
Why does the widow say she and her son will eat and die?
The widow says she and her son will eat and die because she believes they will not have enough food to survive after consuming their last meal, highlighting her poverty and trust in God's provision, as also seen in Psalm 37:3-7.
What can we learn from the widow's faith in 1 Kings 17:12?
We can learn that even in times of great need and uncertainty, we can trust in God's provision and care, just like the widow, who trusted in the LORD despite her desperate circumstances, as encouraged in Matthew 6:25-34 and Philippians 4:19.
How does the widow's statement relate to Elijah's mission?
The widow's statement sets the stage for Elijah's miracle of provision, as he promises that the jar of flour and jug of oil will not run out until the LORD sends rain, demonstrating God's power and care for His people, as seen in 1 Kings 17:14 and Deuteronomy 8:3-4.
Reflection Questions
- What are some areas in my life where I am struggling to trust in God's provision, and how can I apply the widow's faith to those situations?
- How can I demonstrate hospitality and trust in God's care, like the widow, when I feel like I have very little to offer?
- What are some ways I can practically apply the principle of trusting in God's daily provision, as seen in Matthew 6:11 and Luke 11:3?
- In what ways can I show trust in God's sovereignty, even when faced with uncertainty or hardship, like the widow in 1 Kings 17:12?
Gill's Exposition on 1 Kings 17:12
And she said, as the Lord thy God liveth,.... Which shows her to be a good woman, swearing by the living God, and him only, and that she took Elijah to be a good man, and a prophet of the Lord: I
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 1 Kings 17:12
So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow woman was there gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a little
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
As the Lord thy God liveth; by which she discovers, that though she was a Gentile, yet she owned the God of Israel as the true God. Two sticks, i.e. a few sticks, that number being oft used indefinitely for any small number, both in Scripture, as , and by other authors. That we may eat it, and die; for having no more provision, we must needs perish with hunger. For though the famine was only in the land of Israel, yet the effects of it were in Tyre and Zidon, which were fed by the corn of that land. See . Or the same famine might be in those parts also; the chief cause of the famine, to wit, the worship of Baal, being common to both places.
Trapp's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
1 Kings 17:12 And she said, [As] the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel, and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I [am] gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for me and my son, that we may eat it, and die.Ver. 12. I have not a cake.] Not so much food ready as a cake. Half a cake, we say, is better than no bread: but here it was not to be had. It is God’ s glory to help at a pinch. This poor widow was not alone distressed, but the rest of the Zidonians also, who as they had sent their idolatry to Israel, together with their daughter Jezebel, so do they partake of their punishment. Menander, a heathen historian, brought in by Josephus, telleth of a great drought and dearth in the time of Ithobaal, king of the Zidonians, and that when he had appointed supplications to be made, a great thunder followed, and much rain fell. Ita Diabolus operum Dei Momus et Mimus, per Menandrum hoc egit, ut divinum miraculum in Iudaea editum vilesceret, fidem et authoritatem amitteret, et tanti operis gloria ad turpissima dola rediret! But a handful of meal in a barrel.] Happy was it for this widow, that she was no niggard of her last handful. Her barrel and cruse had thereby no bottom. The mercy of God crowneth our beneficence with abundance.
Not getting, but giving, is the right way to wealth. For me and my son.] The Greek version hath it, My sons, as if she had many: and then her goodness was the greater in parting with any to the prophet, as Eucherius observeth.
Ellicott's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
(12) I have not a cake.—The famine may have already extended to Phœnicia; for there, according to Menander, it lasted for a year; or, since the country depended upon Israel for supplies, the distress may have been only the reflex effect of the famine in Israel. As the Lord thy God liveth.—The phrase indicates a recognition of Elijah as a prophet of Jehovah the God of Israel, but probably (as, indeed, seems to be implied by the use of the words “thy God”) no acknowledgment of Him as yet by the woman herself, such as the neighbouring heathen (as, for example, Hiram in the days of Solomon) often yielded.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
Verse 12. A handful of meal in a barrel] The word כד cad is to be understood as implying an earthen jar; not a wooden vessel, or barrel of any kind. In the East they preserve their corn and meal in such vessels; without which precaution the insects would destroy them. Travellers in Asiatic countries abound with observations of this kind. The word cruse, צפחת tsappachath, says Jarchi, signifies what in our tongue is expressed by bouteille, a bottle. Jarchi was a French rabbin.
Cambridge Bible on 1 Kings 17:12
12. meal in a [R.V. the] barrel … oil in a [R.V. the] cruse] The definite article is expressed in the original, and represented by the LXX. The barrel and the cruse were the special domestic articles in every house, and would be spoken of definitely. two sticks] i.e. some small quantity. Thus we often say ‘a couple’ when we do not mean ‘two’ only. my son] The LXX. renders by the plural ‘sons,’ perhaps because it is said, in 1 Kings 17:15, that ‘she and he and her house did eat many days.’ Josephus gives the singular ‘my son’ as the Hebrew. eat it, and die] The drought had already brought so poor a person to the point of starvation.
Barnes' Notes on 1 Kings 17:12
As the Lord thy God liveth - The words do not prove that the woman was an Israelite, or a worshipper of the true God; any Phoenician, recognizing in Elijah’s appearance the garb and manner of a
Whedon's Commentary on 1 Kings 17:12
12. As the Lord thy God liveth — This was a formula somewhat peculiar to Elijah, (see 1 Kings 17:1,) and her use of it indicates in her a knowledge and reverence of the God of Israel.
Sermons on 1 Kings 17:12
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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Dying to Self (Part 1 of 2) by Keith Green | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of committing everything to God. He references Luke 12:35-36, where Jesus instructs his followers to be ready and alert for t |
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Life of Elijah - Part 2 by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher uses the story of Elijah and the widow in 1 Kings 17 to illustrate the provision of God in times of extreme poverty. The preacher emphasizes the role o |
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True Faith by Albu van Eeden | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the mystery of God selecting a vessel to use. He emphasizes that God not only wants to save us but also desires to use us for His purposes. |
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Woe Lo Go - the Vision (1955) by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and self-awareness. He mentions that if someone invented a camera that could capture the true state of our |
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Giving Your All for Jesus by Brian Kirik | In this sermon, the speaker shares the story of P. O'Hannon, an Indian missionary who started a mission organization called Gospel for Asia. O'Hannon was burdened by the materialis |
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No One Can Harm the Man Who Does Not Harm Himself - Part 1 by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom preaches about the dangers of being captivated by the pursuit of wealth and the false sense of pleasure and honor it brings. He challenges the common assumption tha |
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2 Corinthians 9:1-2 by St. John Chrysostom | John Chrysostom preaches about the importance of generosity and giving to those in need, emphasizing the need to sow bountifully in order to reap bountifully. He encourages the con |