Deuteronomy 22:20

Authorized King James Version

But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel:

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
אֱמֶ֣ת
be true
stability; (figuratively) certainty, truth, trustworthiness
#3
הָיָ֔ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#4
הַדָּבָ֖ר
But if this thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#5
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#6
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
נִמְצְא֥וּ
be not found
properly, to come forth to, i.e., appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e., find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present
#8
בְתוּלִ֖ים
and the tokens of virginity
(collectively and abstractly) virginity; by implication and concretely, the tokens of it
#9
לַֽנַּעֲרָֽ׃
for the damsel
a girl (from infancy to adolescence)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

Questions for Reflection

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