Deuteronomy 32:4

Authorized King James Version

He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַצּוּר֙
He is the Rock
properly, a cliff (or sharp rock, as compressed); generally, a rock or boulder; figuratively, a refuge; also an edge (as precipitous)
#2
תָּמִ֣ים
is perfect
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
#3
פָּֽעֳל֔וֹ
his work
an act or work (concretely)
#4
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
כָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
דְּרָכָ֖יו
for all his ways
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#7
מִשְׁפָּ֑ט
are judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#8
אֵ֤ל
a God
strength; as adjective, mighty; especially the almighty (but used also of any deity)
#9
אֱמוּנָה֙
of truth
literally firmness; figuratively security; morally fidelity
#10
וְאֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#11
עָ֔וֶל
and without iniquity
(moral) evil
#12
צַדִּ֥יק
just
just
#13
וְיָשָׁ֖ר
and right
straight (literally or figuratively)
#14
הֽוּא׃
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

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing truth contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources