Deuteronomy 14:19

Authorized King James Version

And every creeping thing that flieth is unclean unto you: they shall not be eaten.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכֹל֙
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
שֶׁ֣רֶץ
And every creeping thing
a swarm, i.e., active mass of minute animals
#3
הָע֔וֹף
that flieth
a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively
#4
טָמֵ֥א
is unclean
foul in a religious sense
#5
ה֖וּא
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
#6
לָכֶ֑ם
H0
#7
לֹ֖א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
יֵֽאָכֵֽלוּ׃
unto you they shall not be eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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