Deuteronomy 25:18

Authorized King James Version

How he met thee by the way, and smote the hindmost of thee, even all that were feeble behind thee, when thou wast faint and weary; and he feared not God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#2
קָֽרְךָ֜
How he met
to light upon (chiefly by accident); specifically, to impose timbers (for roof or floor)
#3
בַּדֶּ֗רֶךְ
thee by the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#4
וַיְזַנֵּ֤ב
and smote the hindmost
to curtail, i.e., cut off the rear
#5
בְּךָ֙
H0
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
הַנֶּֽחֱשָׁלִ֣ים
of thee even all that were feeble
to make (intransitive be) unsteady, i.e., weak
#8
אַֽחַרֶ֔יךָ
behind
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#9
וְאַתָּ֖ה
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#10
עָיֵ֣ף
thee when thou wast faint
languid
#11
וְיָגֵ֑עַ
and weary
tired; hence (transitive) tiresome
#12
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#13
יָרֵ֖א
and he feared
fearing; morally, reverent
#14
אֱלֹהִֽים׃
not God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources