Deuteronomy 10:16

Authorized King James Version

Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמַלְתֶּ֕ם
Circumcise
to cut short, i.e., curtail (specifically the prepuce, i.e., to circumcise); by implication, to blunt; figuratively, to destroy
#2
אֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
עָרְלַ֣ת
therefore the foreskin
the prepuce
#4
לְבַבְכֶ֑ם
of your heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#5
וְעָ֨רְפְּכֶ֔ם
and be no more stiffnecked
the nape or back of the neck (as declining); hence, the back generally (whether literal or figurative)
#6
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
תַקְשׁ֖וּ
properly, to be dense, i.e., tough or severe (in various applications)
#8
עֽוֹד׃
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Deuteronomy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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