Deuteronomy 7:4

Authorized King James Version

For they will turn away thy son from following me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the LORD be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
יָסִ֤יר
For they will turn away
to turn off (literally or figuratively)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
בִּנְךָ֙
thy son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
מֵֽאַחֲרַ֔י
from following
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#6
וְעָֽבְד֖וּ
me that they may serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#7
אֱלֹהִ֣ים
gods
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
#8
אֲחֵרִ֑ים
other
properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc
#9
וְחָרָ֤ה
be kindled
to glow or grow warm; figuratively (usually) to blaze up, of anger, zeal, jealousy
#10
אַף
so will the anger
properly, the nose or nostril; hence, the face, and occasionally a person; also (from the rapid breathing in passion) ire
#11
יְהוָה֙
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#12
בָּכֶ֔ם
H0
#13
וְהִשְׁמִֽידְךָ֖
against you and destroy
to desolate
#14
מַהֵֽר׃
thee suddenly
properly, hurrying; hence (adverbially) in a hurry

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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