Deuteronomy 4:13

Authorized King James Version

And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּגֵּ֨ד
And he declared
properly, to front, i.e., stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to
#2
לָכֶ֜ם
H0
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
בְּרִית֗וֹ
unto you his covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#5
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
צִוָּ֤ה
which he commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#7
אֶתְכֶם֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
לַֽעֲשׂ֔וֹת
you to perform
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
עֲשֶׂ֖רֶת
even ten
ten (as an accumulation to the extent of the digits)
#10
הַדְּבָרִ֑ים
commandments
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#11
וַֽיִּכְתְּבֵ֔ם
and he wrote
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#12
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
שְׁנֵ֖י
them upon two
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#14
לֻח֥וֹת
tables
probably meaning to glisten; a tablet (as polished), of stone, wood or metal
#15
אֲבָנִֽים׃
H68
of stone
a stone

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

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 covenant particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show treaty language and adoption practices from the ancient world, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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