The Value of Knowing Biblical Languages

[Trouvere]

I am posting this with permission from the author.I know the subject may make someone blush but remember we cannot see your face so you are free and clear.Amen!

The Value of Knowing Biblical Languages
Bruce A. Klein, ThD

One of my mentors said, ‘A person should not be a Bible teacher unless he or she knows the original Biblical languages.’ I believe one must have learned how to hear from the Holy Spirit to know truth before one can teach Biblical truths.

My goal in this study is to show you value in knowing Hebrew, the written language of the Old Covenant.

In Genesis 39:1 the word ‘officer’ has a deeper meaning in the original Hebrew.

“And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmaelites, which had brought him down thither” King James Version (KJV) Genesis 39:1

“And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. 7 And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. 8 But he refused, and said unto his master's wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand;” Genesis 39:6-8

“And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.” Genesis 39:12
Joseph did what every Christian should do in this kind of situation, RUN!


The Hebrew reveals a deep issue with Potiphar’s wife. What was her underlining problem? Her underlining problem was her husband was not fulfilling her sexual needs. You respond by saying, ‘WHAT’!!!!!


The problem originated with Potiphar. The KJV translates ‘H5631’ as ‘officer’, Genesis 39:1.

Genesis 39:1 “And Joseph3130 was brought down3381 to Egypt;4714 and Potiphar,6318 an officer 5631 of Pharaoh,6547 captain8269 of the guard,2876 an Egyptian,376, 4713 bought7069 him of the hands4480, 3027 of the Ishmaelites,3459 which834 had brought him down3381 thither.8033”

H5631 sârîys / sârisסרס /סריס
BDB Definition: The Brown-Driver-Brigg’s Hebrew and English Lexicon*
1) official, eunuch
Part of Speech: noun masculine
A Related Word by BDB/Strong’s Number:from an unused root meaning to castrate
Same Word by TWOT Number: 1545
*This is a standard Biblical Hebrew lexicon.

Does the KJV translate ‘H5631’ eunuch in other verses? Yes.
Eunuch(s), 15 times in the KJV
2Ki_9:32, 2Ki_20:18, Isa_39:7, Isa_56:4, Jer_29:2, Jer_34:19, Jer_38:7, Jer_41:16, Dan_1:3, Dan_1:7-11 (5), Dan_1:18, Isa_56:3, Jer_52:25

Does the New International Version, New American Standard Version, or New King James Version bring out this important meaning? No.

Do any translations bring out this important meaning? Yes.

Gen 39:1 “And Joseph was carried down to Egypt. And Potiphar, a eunuch of Pharaoh, the chief of the executioners, an Egyptian man, bought him from the hand of the Ishmaelites who had carried him down there.” Jay Green’s Literal Translation

Gen 39:1 “And Joseph hath been brought down to Egypt, and Potiphar, a eunuch of Pharaoh, head of the executioners, an Egyptian man, buyeth him out of the hands of the Ishmaelites who have brought him thither.” Young’s Literal Translation

Gen 39:1 “igitur Ioseph ductus est in Aegyptum emitque eum Putiphar eunuchus Pharaonis princeps exercitus vir aegyptius de manu Ismahelitarum a quibus perductus erat” Latin Vulgate


The Old Covenant is full of treasures which can be discovered by knowing Hebrew. You also may wish to study Biblical Hebrew. Anyone can learn Biblical Hebrew.

Bruce Klein, ThD
www.freewebs.com/bibleteach
Bibleteach@hotmail.com

[Pressing-On]

I invited him over to AFF.

My question would be - Why did she marry him in the first place and/or was it arranged?

[Trouvere]

I invited him over to AFF.

My question would be - Why did she marry him in the first place and/or was it arranged?

He held a place of honour.lol...I guess some women love to marry politicians.haha

[Pressing-On]

He held a place of honour.lol...I guess some women love to marry politicians.haha

I would think so. That's why I think Bathsheba went the extra mile, but that is another debate.

Wasn't it common for marriages to be arranged, though?

I also believe that I read some were castrated in "heart" and not always in "body".

[Trouvere]

I would think so. That's why I think Bathsheba went the extra mile, but that is another debate.

Wasn't it common for marriages to be arranged, though?

I also believe that I read some were castrated in "heart" and not always in "body".

He was Egyptian though.There is a link I can pm you that goes into more detail that was on the bottom of the original article.
I removed it as it was to explicit for the forum.

[Pressing-On]

He was Egyptian though.There is a link I can pm you that goes into more detail that was on the bottom of the original article.
I removed it as it was to explicit for the forum.

If it's History, I wouldn't mind reading it. I think we get to the heart of what the background of the Bible is saying that way. For instance, Customs and Manners in Bible Lands, allows you to understand more of the context of scripture.

Thanks,

[Trouvere]

If it's History, I wouldn't mind reading it. I think we get to the heart of what the background of the Bible is saying that way. For instance, Customs and Manners in Bible Lands, allows you to understand more of the context of scripture.

Thanks,

I sent the link to your box.Its a bit graphic so I removed the link from the ariticle.

[Pressing-On]

I sent the link to your box.Its a bit graphic so I removed the link from the ariticle.

Thanks, Trouvere. I'm sure I've read the information in the past.

I'll post the necessary information since you didn't want to. J/K!!!!!!

:toofunny

[Trouvere]

Thanks, Trouvere. I'm sure I've read the information in the past.

I'll post the necessary information since you didn't want to. J/K!!!!!!

:toofunny

I didn't want to overstep any boundries.If you think its okay then give the link.I am sure all the men on here will cringe.lol.

[Pressing-On]

I didn't want to overstep any boundries.If you think its okay then give the link.I am sure all the men on here will cringe.lol.

Uh, I'm 1/3 way through it. I won't be linking it. LOL!

One plus, the men do not experience male pattern baldness, even if his genes call for it. Hahahhahahaa!

[Pressing-On]

Interesting:

Interestingly enough, the Carrib Indians (for whom the Caribbean Islands are named) were well aware of the effects of early castration and took unique advantage it. That is, because early castration kept the flesh fattier and prevented the muscles from becoming tough and wiry, the Carribs made the habit of castrating their young male captives. They then fed them amply until such time as they were deemed ready to be eaten. (An ugly embellishment on the Hansel & Gretel story.) Not surprisingly, the word "cannibal" is said to derive from the tribe's name.

Although the musical ability of eunuchs had long been recognized in other cultures, and had no doubt been part of the Catholic music scene itself for quite some time, the Catholic Church did not officially acknowledge these boy “castrati” until 1599 when Pope Clement VIII became smitten with the sweetness and flexibility of their voices. Women were banned from singing in the Church, therefore it was the high vocal range of the castrati that gave devotional music its appealing angelic quality.

While some Church officials suggested it would be preferable to lift the ban on women singers than to continue endorsing the castration of little boys, the Pope disagreed, quoting Saint Paul, "Let women be silent in the assemblies, for it is not permitted to them to speak." Of course since it was illegal to perform castrations (transgressors could be excommunicated), all castrati presenting themselves for the choir claimed to have lost their genitals through tragic “accident”. :toofunny

Although there is considerable variation from culture to culture as to how and why castration was practiced, all seemed to share its use as a punishment for adultery, rape, and homosexuality.

Overall the article is written in a crass form and not suitable for linking. It does give more detailed information than I have read in other places.

[Trouvere]

Wow I missed that about the Carribeans.That is wierd.

[Pressing-On]

Wow I missed that about the Carribeans.That is wierd.
The one about "women being silent" for the choir is one I've never run across before.

[Trouvere]

I have read about the Castrati's in the past.I cannot remember what I was studying when I did.
Some people were sick sick sick.
The pictures are what is scary on that site.

[Michael The Disciple]

Of all that could be said that is of value concerning knowing the Hebrew THIS is all you have to offer?

[Trouvere]

Of all that could be said that is of value concerning knowing the Hebrew THIS is all you have to offer?

Micheal what is it you have offered?

[Trouvere]

Micheal what is it you have offered?

bump....I love this topic and have invited the author to share with us.God is good.

[Pressing-On]

bump....I love this topic and have invited the author to share with us.God is good.

Trouvere,
It is an interesting topic and I'm sure the author has much more to add.

I did get out an invite and glad you did also.

[Trouvere]

Amen I am looking forward to that.

[Praxeas]

I am posting this with permission from the author.I know the subject may make someone blush but remember we cannot see your face so you are free and clear.Amen!

The Value of Knowing Biblical Languages
Bruce A. Klein, ThD

One of my mentors said, ‘A person should not be a Bible teacher unless he or she knows the original Biblical languages.’ I believe one must have learned how to hear from the Holy Spirit to know truth before one can teach Biblical truths.

My goal in this study is to show you value in knowing Hebrew, the written language of the Old Covenant.

In Genesis 39:1 the word ‘officer’ has a deeper meaning in the original Hebrew.

“And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmaelites, which had brought him down thither” King James Version (KJV) Genesis 39:1

“And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. 7 And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. 8 But he refused, and said unto his master's wife, Behold, my master wotteth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath to my hand;” Genesis 39:6-8

“And she caught him by his garment, saying, Lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled, and got him out.” Genesis 39:12
Joseph did what every Christian should do in this kind of situation, RUN!


The Hebrew reveals a deep issue with Potiphar’s wife. What was her underlining problem? Her underlining problem was her husband was not fulfilling her sexual needs. You respond by saying, ‘WHAT’!!!!!


The problem originated with Potiphar. The KJV translates ‘H5631’ as ‘officer’, Genesis 39:1.

Genesis 39:1 “And Joseph3130 was brought down3381 to Egypt;4714 and Potiphar,6318 an officer 5631 of Pharaoh,6547 captain8269 of the guard,2876 an Egyptian,376, 4713 bought7069 him of the hands4480, 3027 of the Ishmaelites,3459 which834 had brought him down3381 thither.8033”

H5631 sârîys / sârisסרס /סריס
BDB Definition: The Brown-Driver-Brigg’s Hebrew and English Lexicon*
1) official, eunuch
Part of Speech: noun masculine
A Related Word by BDB/Strong’s Number:from an unused root meaning to castrate
Same Word by TWOT Number: 1545
*This is a standard Biblical Hebrew lexicon.

Does the KJV translate ‘H5631’ eunuch in other verses? Yes.
Eunuch(s), 15 times in the KJV
2Ki_9:32, 2Ki_20:18, Isa_39:7, Isa_56:4, Jer_29:2, Jer_34:19, Jer_38:7, Jer_41:16, Dan_1:3, Dan_1:7-11 (5), Dan_1:18, Isa_56:3, Jer_52:25

Does the New International Version, New American Standard Version, or New King James Version bring out this important meaning? No.

Do any translations bring out this important meaning? Yes.

Gen 39:1 “And Joseph was carried down to Egypt. And Potiphar, a eunuch of Pharaoh, the chief of the executioners, an Egyptian man, bought him from the hand of the Ishmaelites who had carried him down there.” Jay Green’s Literal Translation

Gen 39:1 “And Joseph hath been brought down to Egypt, and Potiphar, a eunuch of Pharaoh, head of the executioners, an Egyptian man, buyeth him out of the hands of the Ishmaelites who have brought him thither.” Young’s Literal Translation

Gen 39:1 “igitur Ioseph ductus est in Aegyptum emitque eum Putiphar eunuchus Pharaonis princeps exercitus vir aegyptius de manu Ismahelitarum a quibus perductus erat” Latin Vulgate


The Old Covenant is full of treasures which can be discovered by knowing Hebrew. You also may wish to study Biblical Hebrew. Anyone can learn Biblical Hebrew.

Bruce Klein, ThD
www.freewebs.com/bibleteach (http://www.freewebs.com/bibleteach)
Bibleteach@hotmail.com
Problem...
Eunuchs were usually made that way because they were entrusted to watch over a harem and not be tempted. They did not get married as far as I know.

2...Eunuchs were usually slaves, not citizens, of that nation.

Thus, in this context the man is both married and an Egyptian. Words often have more than one meaning. A woman, nor a man for that reason, does not need an excuse like their spouses are not fulfilling their needs in order to cheat

[Praxeas]

It seems to me that this subject goes beyond checking a Hebrew dictionary. I'll check the twot....

Hebrew Word: saris
Strong's Cross Reference: 5631
Definition: official eunuch. (ASV, RSV similarly.)

The noun, meaning "(court) official, " has its origin in the Akkadian title sa resi (sarri) "the one of the (king's) head." The meaning "eunuch" arose with the practice of utilizing castrated men in key positions in the various nations of the ancient near east (e.g. in Persia, Est_2:3ff; Est_4:4ff).

The Hebrew word is clearly related to the name of the Akkadian royal official (2Ki_18:17). Accordingly, saris is not to be translated "eunuch" unless context or other evidence demands it. Thus, since thorough study fall s to uncover conclusive evidence for the employment of eunuchs as officials in ancient Egypt, the reason why the Egyptian officers in the Joseph narritive were called by this term is probably that in all three cases (Gen_37:36; Gen_39:1; Gen_40:2, Gen_40:7) these men were special officials of Pharaoh.

It can be doubted that Israel would have inaugurated the employment of eunuchs. Such men would have been excluded from the congregation by Mosaic Law (Lev_22:24; Deu_23:2). It has been argued that they may have been introduced by Jezebel (cf. 1Ki_22:9) and maintained by subsequent kings (2Ki_8:6; 2Ki_9:32) in positions in close contact with women. If so, the Lord's promise through Isaiah (Isa_56:3-5) is most apropos.

No certain evidence exists that Daniel and his three friends were made eunuchs (2Ki_20:17-18; Dan 1).

[Pressing-On]

It seems to me that this subject goes beyond checking a Hebrew dictionary. I'll check the twot....

The Hebrew word is clearly related to the name of the Akkadian royal official (2Ki_18:17). Accordingly, saris is not to be translated "eunuch" unless context or other evidence demands it. Thus, since thorough study fall s to uncover conclusive evidence for the employment of eunuchs as officials in ancient Egypt, the reason why the Egyptian officers in the Joseph narritive were called by this term is probably that in all three cases (Gen_37:36; Gen_39:1; Gen_40:2, Gen_40:7) these men were special officials of Pharaoh.
That would make sense. I just couldn't understand why she would have married him and thus I asked if the marriage was arranged or what? lol

[Trouvere]

Praxeas friend I did not think to even check the twot.I am excited about having it to work with though.I was hoping Brother Klein would come on and post.He is reading it though.
You however are an exception as a christian.Many people don't even bother to study
unless they are preaching that night.

[Trouvere]

We kind of got off on a tangent about early historical practices on this thread.
Back to the main subject.
There is great value in knowing the original Biblical languages. It takes effort on your part but just knowing the idioms of the time really helps you relate to the passages better.

Has anyone else put time into study of Greek or Hebrew or Aramaic?

[Baron1710]

"Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh’s - The word סריס saris, translated officer, signifies a eunuch; and lest any person should imagine that because this Potiphar had a wife, therefore it is absurd to suppose him to have been a eunuch, let such persons know that it is not uncommon in the east for eunuchs to have wives, nay, some of them have even a harem or seraglio where they keep many women, though it does not appear that they have any progeny; and probably discontent on this ground might have contributed as much to the unfaithfulness of Potiphar’s wife, as that less principled motive through which it is commonly believed she acted."

Note on Genesis 37:36 on the same phrase.
Adam Clark.

[Michael The Disciple]

Their is much value in knowing the original languages. Our English version is of course a translation of them. Funny tho when one teaches the importance of the name of God in Hebrew or the original name of Jesus you usually are met with "we dont speak Hebrew" we speak English.

[marylinda1]

I didn't want to overstep any boundries.If you think its okay then give the link.I am sure all the men on here will cringe.lol.

Uh, I'm 1/3 way through it. I won't be linking it. LOL!

One plus, the men do not experience male pattern baldness, even if his genes call for it. Hahahhahahaa!

[Pressing-On]

This is the link discussed. It's not that big of a deal for an adult studying history.

http://www.rotten.com/library/sex/castration/eunuch/