Deuteronomy 23:19

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt not lend upon usury to thy brother; usury of money, usury of victuals, usury of any thing that is lent upon usury:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
יִשָּֽׁךְ׃
Thou shalt not lend upon usury
to strike with a sting (as a serpent); figuratively, to oppress with interest on a loan
#3
לְאָחִ֔יךָ
to thy brother
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#4
נֶ֕שֶׁךְ
usury
interest on a debt
#5
כֶּ֖סֶף
of money
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#6
נֶ֕שֶׁךְ
usury
interest on a debt
#7
אֹ֑כֶל
of victuals
food
#8
נֶ֕שֶׁךְ
usury
interest on a debt
#9
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
דָּבָ֖ר
of any thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#11
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#12
יִשָּֽׁךְ׃
Thou shalt not lend upon usury
to strike with a sting (as a serpent); figuratively, to oppress with interest on a loan

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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