Deuteronomy 17:4

Authorized King James Version

And it be told thee, and thou hast heard of it, and enquired diligently, and, behold, it be true, and the thing certain, that such abomination is wrought in Israel:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהֻֽגַּד
And it be told
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#2
לְךָ֖
H0
#3
וְשָׁמָ֑עְתָּ
thee and thou hast heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#4
וְדָֽרַשְׁתָּ֣
of it and enquired
properly, to tread or frequent; usually to follow (for pursuit or search); by implication, to seek or ask; specifically to worship
#5
הֵיטֵ֔ב
diligently
to be (causative) make well, literally (sound, beautiful) or figuratively (happy, successful, right)
#6
וְהִנֵּ֤ה
lo!
#7
אֱמֶת֙
and behold it be true
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
#8
נָכ֣וֹן
certain
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
#9
הַדָּבָ֔ר
and the thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#10
נֶֽעֶשְׂתָ֛ה
is wrought
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#11
הַתּֽוֹעֵבָ֥ה
that such abomination
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
#12
הַזֹּ֖את
this (often used adverb)
#13
בְּיִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
in Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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