Deuteronomy 21:2

Authorized King James Version

Then thy elders and thy judges shall come forth, and they shall measure unto the cities which are round about him that is slain:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְיָֽצְא֥וּ
shall come forth
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#2
זְקֵנֶ֖יךָ
Then thy elders
old
#3
וְשֹֽׁפְטֶ֑יךָ
and thy judges
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#4
וּמָֽדְדוּ֙
and they shall measure
properly, to stretch; by implication, to measure (as if by stretching a line); figuratively, to be extended
#5
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
הֶ֣עָרִ֔ים
unto the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#7
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
סְבִיבֹ֥ת
which are round about
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
#9
הֶֽחָלָֽל׃
him that is slain
pierced (especially to death); figuratively, polluted

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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