Deuteronomy 21:15
If a man have two wives, one beloved, and another hated, and they have born him children, both the beloved and the hated; and if the firstborn son be hers that was hated:
Word-by-Word Analysis
Analysis
This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.
Historical Context
The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Deuteronomy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes love in this particular way.
Questions for Reflection
- How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
- In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
- What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
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