Deuteronomy 16:8

Authorized King James Version

Six days thou shalt eat unleavened bread: and on the seventh day shall be a solemn assembly to the LORD thy God: thou shalt do no work therein.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
שֵׁ֥שֶׁת
Six
six (as an overplus beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ordinal, sixth
#2
וּבַיּ֣וֹם
day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#3
תֹּאכַ֣ל
thou shalt eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#4
מַצּ֑וֹת
unleavened bread
properly, sweetness; concretely, sweet (i.e., not soured or bittered with yeast); specifically, an unfermented cake or loaf, or (elliptically) the fes
#5
וּבַיּ֣וֹם
day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#6
הַשְּׁבִיעִ֗י
and on the seventh
seventh
#7
עֲצֶ֙רֶת֙
shall be a solemn assembly
an assembly, especially on a festival or holiday
#8
לַֽיהוָ֣ה
to the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#9
אֱלֹהֶ֔יךָ
thy God
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
#10
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#11
תַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
thou shalt do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#12
מְלָאכָֽה׃
no work
properly, deputyship, i.e., ministry; generally, employment (never servile) or work (abstractly or concretely); also property (as the result of labor)

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

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

Study Resources