Deuteronomy 24:6

Authorized King James Version

No man shall take the nether or the upper millstone to pledge: for he taketh a man's life to pledge.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
חֹבֵֽל׃
No man shall take
to wind tightly (as a rope), i.e., to bind; specifically, by a pledge; figuratively, to pervert, destroy; also to writhe in pain (especially of partur
#3
רֵחַ֖יִם
the nether
a mill-stone
#4
וָרָ֑כֶב
or the upper millstone
a vehicle; by implication, a team; by extension, cavalry; by analogy a rider, i.e., the upper millstone
#5
כִּי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#6
נֶ֖פֶשׁ
a man's life
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#7
ה֥וּא
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
#8
חֹבֵֽל׃
No man shall take
to wind tightly (as a rope), i.e., to bind; specifically, by a pledge; figuratively, to pervert, destroy; also to writhe in pain (especially of partur

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of life 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 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 life. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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