Deuteronomy 5:32

Authorized King James Version

Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֣ם
H8104
Ye shall observe
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#2
לַֽעֲשׂ֔וֹת
H6213
to do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#3
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֥ר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
צִוָּ֛ה
H6680
hath commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#5
יְהוָ֥ה
H3068
therefore as the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶ֖ם
H430
your 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
#7
אֶתְכֶ֑ם
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
לֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
תָסֻ֖רוּ
H5493
you ye shall not turn aside
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#10
יָמִ֥ין
H3225
to the right hand
the right hand or side (leg, eye) of a person or other object (as the stronger and more dexterous); locally, the south
#11
וּשְׂמֹֽאל׃
H8040
or to the left
properly, dark (as enveloped), i.e., the north; hence (by orientation), the left hand

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Deuteronomy. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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