Deuteronomy 2:4

Authorized King James Version

And command thou the people, saying, Ye are to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#2
הָעָם֮
thou the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#3
צַ֣ו
And command
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#4
לֵאמֹר֒
saying
to say (used with great latitude)
#5
אַתֶּ֣ם
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#6
עֹֽבְרִ֗ים
Ye are to pass
to cross over; used very widely of any transition (literal or figurative; transitive, intransitive, intensive, causative); specifically, to cover (in
#7
בִּגְבוּל֙
through the coast
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
#8
אֲחֵיכֶ֣ם
of your brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#9
בְּנֵֽי
the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#10
עֵשָׂ֔ו
of Esau
esav, a son of isaac, including his posterity
#11
הַיֹּֽשְׁבִ֖ים
which dwell
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#12
בְּשֵׂעִ֑יר
in Seir
seir, a mountain of idumaea and its indigenous occupants, also one in palestine
#13
וְיִֽירְא֣וּ
and they shall be afraid
to fear; morally to revere; causatively to frighten
#14
מִכֶּ֔ם
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#15
וְנִשְׁמַרְתֶּ֖ם
heed
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#16
מְאֹֽד׃
of you take ye good
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or

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

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 covenant community. 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