Deuteronomy 5:2

Authorized King James Version

The LORD our God made a covenant with us in Horeb.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יְהוָ֣ה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#2
אֱלֹהֵ֗ינוּ
our God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#3
כָּרַ֥ת
made
to cut (off, down or asunder); by implication, to destroy or consume; specifically, to covenant (i.e., make an alliance or bargain, originally by cutt
#4
עִמָּ֛נוּ
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#5
בְּרִ֖ית
a covenant
a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)
#6
בְּחֹרֵֽב׃
with us in Horeb
choreb, a (generic) name for the sinaitic mountains

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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