Deuteronomy 11:16

Authorized King James Version

Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods, and worship them;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִשָּֽׁמְר֣וּ
Take heed
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#2
לָכֶ֔ם
H0
#3
פֶּ֥ן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#4
יִפְתֶּ֖ה
be not deceived
to open, i.e., be (causatively, make) roomy; usually figuratively (in a mental or moral sense) to be (causatively, make) simple or (in a sinister way)
#5
לְבַבְכֶ֑ם
to yourselves that your heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#6
וְסַרְתֶּ֗ם
and ye turn aside
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#7
וַֽעֲבַדְתֶּם֙
and serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#8
אֱלֹהִ֣ים
gods
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
#9
אֲחֵרִ֔ים
other
properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc
#10
וְהִשְׁתַּֽחֲוִיתֶ֖ם
and worship
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)
#11
לָהֶֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Deuteronomy.

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources