Deuteronomy 21:6

Authorized King James Version

And all the elders of that city, that are next unto the slain man, shall wash their hands over the heifer that is beheaded in the valley:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכֹ֗ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
זִקְנֵי֙
And all the elders
old
#3
הָעִ֣יר
of that city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#4
הַהִ֔וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#5
הַקְּרֹבִ֖ים
that are next
near (in place, kindred or time)
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
הֶֽחָלָ֑ל
unto the slain
pierced (especially to death); figuratively, polluted
#8
יִרְחֲצוּ֙
man shall wash
to lave (the whole or a part of a thing)
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
יְדֵיהֶ֔ם
their hands
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#11
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#12
הָֽעֶגְלָ֖ה
over the heifer
a (female) calf, especially one nearly grown (i.e., a heifer)
#13
הָֽעֲרוּפָ֥ה
that is beheaded
to break the neck; hence (figuratively) to destroy
#14
בַנָּֽחַל׃
in the valley
a stream, especially a winter torrent; (by implication) a (narrow) valley (in which a brook runs); also a shaft (of a mine)

Analysis

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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