Deuteronomy 10:19

Authorized King James Version

Love ye therefore the stranger: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽאֲהַבְתֶּ֖ם
Love
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
גֵרִ֥ים
for ye were strangers
properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner
#4
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
גֵרִ֥ים
for ye were strangers
properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner
#6
הֱיִיתֶ֖ם
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
בְּאֶ֥רֶץ
in the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#8
מִצְרָֽיִם׃
of Egypt
mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood love. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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