Deuteronomy 10:18

Authorized King James Version

He doth execute the judgment of the fatherless and widow, and loveth the stranger, in giving him food and raiment.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֹשֶׂ֛ה
He doth execute
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
מִשְׁפַּ֥ט
the judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#3
יָת֖וֹם
of the fatherless
a bereaved person
#4
וְאַלְמָנָ֑ה
and widow
a widow; also a desolate place
#5
וְאֹהֵ֣ב
and loveth
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#6
גֵּ֔ר
the stranger
properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner
#7
לָ֥תֶת
in giving
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#8
ל֖וֹ
H0
#9
לֶ֥חֶם
him food
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#10
וְשִׂמְלָֽה׃
and raiment
a dress, especially a mantle

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 love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character 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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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