Deuteronomy 28:14

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt not go aside from any of the words which I command thee this day, to the right hand, or to the left, to go after other gods to serve them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תָס֗וּר
H5493
And thou shalt not go aside
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#3
מִכָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
הַדְּבָרִים֙
H1697
from any of the words
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#5
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
אָֽנֹכִ֜י
H595
i
#7
מְצַוֶּ֥ה
H6680
which I command
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#8
אֶתְכֶ֛ם
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הַיּ֖וֹם
H3117
thee this day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#10
יָמִ֣ין
H3225
to the right hand
the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south
#11
וּשְׂמֹ֑אול
H8040
or to the left
properly, dark (as enveloped), i.e., the north; hence (by orientation), the left hand
#12
לָלֶ֗כֶת
H1980
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#13
אַֽחֲרֵ֛י
H310
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#14
אֱלֹהִ֥ים
H430
gods
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
#15
אֲחֵרִ֖ים
H312
other
properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc
#16
לְעָבְדָֽם׃
H5647
to serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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