Deuteronomy 18:7

Authorized King James Version

Then he shall minister in the name of the LORD his God, as all his brethren the Levites do, which stand there before the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְשֵׁרֵ֕ת
Then he shall minister
to attend as a menial or worshipper; figuratively, to contribute to
#2
בְּשֵׁ֖ם
in the name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#3
יְהוָֽה׃
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#4
אֱלֹהָ֑יו
his 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
#5
כְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
אֶחָיו֙
as all his brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#7
הַלְוִיִּ֔ם
the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#8
הָעֹֽמְדִ֥ים
do which stand
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#9
שָׁ֖ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#10
לִפְנֵ֥י
there before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#11
יְהוָֽה׃
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources