Deuteronomy 13:15

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt surely smite the inhabitants of that city with the edge of the sword, destroying it utterly, and all that is therein, and the cattle thereof, with the edge of the sword.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תַכֶּ֗ה
H5221
Thou shalt surely
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#2
תַכֶּ֗ה
H5221
Thou shalt surely
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#3
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
יֹֽשְׁבֵ֛י
H3427
the inhabitants
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#5
הָעִ֥יר
H5892
of that city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#6
הַהִ֖וא
H1931
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#7
לְפִי
H6310
thereof with the edge
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#8
חָֽרֶב׃
H2719
of the sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#9
הַֽחֲרֵ֨ם
H2763
destroying it utterly
to seclude; specifically (by a ban) to devote to religious uses (especially destruction); physical and reflexive, to be blunt as to the nose
#10
אֹתָ֧הּ
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
וְאֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#13
אֲשֶׁר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#14
בָּ֛הּ
H0
#15
וְאֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#16
בְּהֶמְתָּ֖הּ
H929
and all that is therein and the cattle
properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)
#17
לְפִי
H6310
thereof with the edge
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#18
חָֽרֶב׃
H2719
of the sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement

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

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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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