Deuteronomy 10:20

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and swear by his name.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#2
יְהוָ֧ה
the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
אֱלֹהֶ֛יךָ
thy God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#4
תִּירָ֖א
Thou shalt fear
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#5
אֹת֣וֹ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
תַֽעֲבֹ֑ד
him shalt thou serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#7
וּב֣וֹ
H0
#8
תִדְבָּ֔ק
and to him shalt thou cleave
properly, to impinge, i.e., cling or adhere; figuratively, to catch by pursuit
#9
וּבִשְׁמ֖וֹ
by his name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#10
תִּשָּׁבֵֽעַ׃
and swear
to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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