Deuteronomy 5:10

Authorized King James Version

And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעֹ֤֥שֶׂה
And shewing
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
חֶ֖֙סֶד֙
mercy
kindness; by implication (towards god) piety; rarely (by opposition) reproof, or (subject.) beauty
#3
לַֽאֲלָפִ֑֔ים
unto thousands
hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand
#4
לְאֹֽהֲבַ֖י
of them that love
to have affection for (sexually or otherwise)
#5
וּלְשֹֽׁמְרֵ֥י
me and keep
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#6
מִצְוֹתָֽוֹ
my commandments
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of love reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The emotional and relational language employed here is characteristic of biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, emphasizing the personal nature of divine-human relationship. The original language emphasizes agape in Greek contexts or hesed in Hebrew, indicating covenantal loyalty, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

Study Resources