Deuteronomy 5:4

Authorized King James Version

The LORD talked with you face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
בְּפָנִ֗ים
to face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#2
בְּפָנִ֗ים
to face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#3
דִּבֶּ֨ר
talked
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#4
יְהוָ֧ה
The LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#5
עִמָּכֶ֛ם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#6
בָּהָ֖ר
in the mount
a mountain or range of hills (sometimes used figuratively)
#7
מִתּ֥וֹךְ
out of the midst
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#8
הָאֵֽשׁ׃
of the fire
fire (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 salvation 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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