Deuteronomy 32:42

Authorized King James Version

I will make mine arrows drunk with blood, and my sword shall devour flesh; and that with the blood of the slain and of the captives, from the beginning of revenges upon the enemy.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַשְׁכִּ֤יר
drunk
to become tipsy; in a qualified sense, to satiate with a stimulating drink or (figuratively) influence
#2
חִצַּי֙
I will make mine arrows
properly, a piercer, i.e., an arrow; by implication, a wound; figuratively, (of god) thunder-bolt; the shaft of a spear
#3
מִדַּ֤ם
and that with the blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#4
וְחַרְבִּ֖י
and my sword
drought; also a cutting instrument (from its destructive effect), as a knife, sword, or other sharp implement
#5
תֹּאכַ֣ל
shall devour
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#6
בָּשָׂ֑ר
flesh
flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
#7
מִדַּ֤ם
and that with the blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#8
חָלָל֙
of the slain
pierced (especially to death); figuratively, polluted
#9
וְשִׁבְיָ֔ה
and of the captives
exile (abstractly or concretely and collectively)
#10
מֵרֹ֖אשׁ
from the beginning
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#11
פַּרְע֥וֹת
of revenges
leadership (plural concretely, leaders)
#12
אוֹיֵֽב׃
upon the enemy
hating; an adversary

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 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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