Deuteronomy 31:25

Authorized King James Version

That Moses commanded the Levites, which bare the ark of the covenant of the LORD, saying,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְצַ֤ו
commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#2
מֹשֶׁה֙
That Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַלְוִיִּ֔ם
the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#5
נֹֽשְׂאֵ֛י
which bare
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#6
אֲר֥וֹן
the ark
a box
#7
בְּרִית
of the covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#8
יְהוָ֖ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#9
לֵאמֹֽר׃
saying
to say (used with great latitude)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights covenant through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 covenant 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 covenant in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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