Deuteronomy 16:12

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in Egypt: and thou shalt observe and do these statutes.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְזָ֣כַרְתָּ֔
And thou shalt remember
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#2
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#3
עֶ֥בֶד
that thou wast a bondman
a servant
#4
הָיִ֖יתָ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#5
בְּמִצְרָ֑יִם
in Egypt
mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt
#6
וְשָֽׁמַרְתָּ֣
and thou shalt observe
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#7
וְעָשִׂ֔יתָ
and do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הַֽחֻקִּ֖ים
these statutes
an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
#10
הָאֵֽלֶּה׃
these or those

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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