Deuteronomy 20:12

Authorized King James Version

And if it will make no peace with thee, but will make war against thee, then thou shalt besiege it:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
לֹ֤א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
תַשְׁלִים֙
And if it will make no peace
to be safe (in mind, body or estate); figuratively, to be (causatively, make) completed; by implication, to be friendly; by extension, to reciprocate
#4
עִמָּ֔ךְ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#5
וְעָֽשְׂתָ֥ה
with thee but will make
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#6
עִמְּךָ֖
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#7
מִלְחָמָ֑ה
war
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
#8
וְצַרְתָּ֖
against thee then thou shalt besiege
to cramp, i.e., confine (in many applications, literally and figuratively, formative or hostile)
#9
עָלֶֽיהָ׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of peace 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

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

Questions for Reflection

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