Deuteronomy 24:12

Authorized King James Version

And if the man be poor, thou shalt not sleep with his pledge:

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
אִ֥ישׁ
And if the man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#3
עָנִ֖י
be poor
depressed, in mind or circumstances
#4
ה֑וּא
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
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
תִשְׁכַּ֖ב
thou shalt not sleep
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#7
בַּֽעֲבֹטֽוֹ׃
with his pledge
a pawn

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of covenant 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant 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

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