Deuteronomy 27:16

Authorized King James Version

Cursed be he that setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אָר֕וּר
Cursed
to execrate
#2
מַקְלֶ֥ה
be he that setteth light
to be light (as implied in rapid motion), but figuratively, only (be [causatively, hold] in contempt)
#3
אָבִ֖יו
H1
by his father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#4
וְאִמּ֑וֹ
or his mother
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#5
וְאָמַ֥ר
shall say
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
הָעָ֖ם
And all the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#8
אָמֵֽן׃
Amen
sure; abstract, faithfulness; adverb, truly

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing covenant community contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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