Deuteronomy 30:12

Authorized King James Version

It is not in heaven, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go up for us to heaven, and bring it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

הַשָּׁמַ֙יְמָה֙

H8064

It is not in heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

הִ֑וא

H1931

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

לֵאמֹ֗ר

H559

that thou shouldest say

to say (used with great latitude)

מִ֣י

H4310

who? (occasionally, by a peculiar idiom, of things); also (indefinitely) whoever; often used in oblique construction with prefix or suffix

יַֽעֲלֶה

H5927

Who shall go up

to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

לָּ֤נוּ

הַשָּׁמַ֙יְמָה֙

H8064

It is not in heaven

the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r

וְיִקָּחֶ֣הָ

H3947

and bring

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

#10

לָּ֔נוּ

#11

וְיַשְׁמִעֵ֥נוּ

H8085

it unto us that we may hear

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

#12

אֹתָ֖הּ

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#13

וְנַֽעֲשֶֽׂנָּה׃

H6213

it and do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

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Deuteronomy 30:12

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Study Resources