Deuteronomy 22:1

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt not see thy brother's ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt in any case bring them again unto thy brother.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תִרְאֶה֩
Thou shalt not see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
שׁ֨וֹר
ox
a bullock (as a traveller)
#5
לְאָחִֽיךָ׃
thy brother's
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#6
א֤וֹ
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
שֵׂיוֹ֙
or his sheep
a member of a flock, i.e., a sheep or goat
#9
נִדָּחִ֔ים
go astray
to push off; used in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively (to expel, mislead, strike, inflict, etc.)
#10
וְהִתְעַלַּמְתָּ֖
and hide
to veil from sight, i.e., conceal (literally or figuratively)
#11
מֵהֶ֑ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#12
תְּשִׁיבֵ֖ם
bring them again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#13
תְּשִׁיבֵ֖ם
bring them again
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#14
לְאָחִֽיךָ׃
thy brother's
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout Deuteronomy.

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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources