Deuteronomy 31:15

Authorized King James Version

And the LORD appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood over the door of the tabernacle.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֵּרָ֧א
appeared
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#2
יְהוָ֛ה
And the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#3
הָאֹֽהֶל׃
in the tabernacle
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
#4
עַמּ֥וּד
and the pillar
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
#5
הֶֽעָנָ֖ן
of a cloud
a cloud (as covering the sky), i.e., the nimbus or thunder-cloud
#6
וַֽיַּעֲמֹ֛ד
stood
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#7
עַמּ֥וּד
and the pillar
a column (as standing); also a stand, i.e., platform
#8
הֶֽעָנָ֖ן
of a cloud
a cloud (as covering the sky), i.e., the nimbus or thunder-cloud
#9
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
פֶּ֥תַח
over the door
an opening (literally), i.e., door (gate) or entrance way
#11
הָאֹֽהֶל׃
in the tabernacle
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)

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 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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