King James Version
What Does 1 Kings 18:34 Mean?
“And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.”
1 Kings 18:34 · KJV
Context
32
And with the stones he built an altar in the name of the LORD: and he made a trench about the altar, as great as would contain two measures of seed.
33
And he put the wood in order, and cut the bullock in pieces, and laid him on the wood, and said, Fill four barrels with water, and pour it on the burnt sacrifice, and on the wood.
34
And he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.
35
And the water ran round about the altar; and he filled the trench also with water. ran: Heb. went
36
And it came to pass at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near, and said, LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, let it be known this day that thou art God in Israel, and that I am thy servant, and that I have done all these things at thy word.
Commentary
KJV Study CommentaryAnd he said, Do it the second time. And they did it the second time. And he said, Do it the third time. And they did it the third time.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of elijah and the prophets of baal, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.
This verse contributes to the broader narrative of elijah and the prophets of baal, within the book's focus on prophetic ministry of Elijah confronting Baalism.
The Hebrew text reveals nuances important for understanding this passage's contribution to 1 Kings' theological message about kingship, covenant, and faithfulness to Yahweh. This verse demonstrates the consequences when God's people—especially their leaders—either follow or forsake the covenant established at Sinai.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Historical & Cultural Context
First Kings was written during or after the Babylonian exile (6th century BCE), reflecting on the monarchy period (10th-9th centuries BCE) to explain why the kingdoms fell. Elijah's ministry (c. 860-850 BCE) occurred during Ahab's reign, a time of intense spiritual crisis in Israel.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Ancient Near Eastern kingship ideology viewed kings as divine representatives responsible for maintaining cosmic order through right worship. Archaeological discoveries from sites like Megiddo, Hazor, and Samaria confirm the historical reliability of 1 Kings' descriptions of building projects and administrative structures.
Reflection Questions
- How does this passage illustrate the importance of complete obedience to God's word without compromise?
- What does Elijah's ministry reveal about God's character and His commitment to His covenant people?
- How does this verse point toward or prepare for the coming of Christ and His eternal kingdom?
Original Language Analysis
Hebrew · 6 wordsוַיִּשְׁנ֔וּ2 of 6
“And they did it the second time”
H8138to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)
וַיִּשְׁנ֔וּ3 of 6
“And they did it the second time”
H8138to fold, i.e., duplicate (literally or figuratively); by implication, to transmute (transitive or intransitive)
וַיְשַׁלֵּֽשׁוּ׃5 of 6
“And they did it the third time”
H8027to be (causatively, make) triplicate (by restoration, in portions, strands, days or years)
וַיְשַׁלֵּֽשׁוּ׃6 of 6
“And they did it the third time”
H8027to be (causatively, make) triplicate (by restoration, in portions, strands, days or years)
Study Guide
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 Kings. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 Kings 18:34 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 Kings 18:34 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge