Deuteronomy 12:13

Authorized King James Version

Take heed to thyself that thou offer not thy burnt offerings in every place that thou seest:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִשָּׁ֣מֶר
Take heed
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#2
לְךָ֔
H0
#3
פֶּֽן
properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest
#4
תַּעֲלֶ֖ה
to thyself that thou offer
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#5
עֹֽלֹתֶ֑יךָ
not thy burnt offerings
a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
#6
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
מָק֖וֹם
in every place
properly, a standing, i.e., a spot; but used widely of a locality (general or specific); also (figuratively) of a condition (of body or mind)
#8
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#9
תִּרְאֶֽה׃
that thou seest
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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