Deuteronomy 28:37

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a byword, among all nations whither the LORD shall lead thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיִ֣יתָ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
לְשַׁמָּ֔ה
And thou shalt become an astonishment
ruin; by implication, consternation
#3
לְמָשָׁ֖ל
a proverb
properly, a pithy maxim, usually of metaphorical nature; hence, a simile (as an adage, poem, discourse)
#4
וְלִשְׁנִינָ֑ה
and a byword
something pointed, i.e., a gibe
#5
בְּכֹל֙
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
הָֽעַמִּ֔ים
among all nations
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#7
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
יְנַֽהֶגְךָ֥
shall lead
to drive forth (a person, an animal or chariot), also (from the panting induced by effort), to sigh
#9
יְהוָ֖ה
whither the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#10
שָֽׁמָּה׃
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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