Deuteronomy 7:5

Authorized King James Version

But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.

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
אִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#3
כֹּ֤ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#4
תַֽעֲשׂוּ֙
But thus shall ye deal
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
לָהֶ֔ם
they (only used when emphatic)
#6
מִזְבְּחֹֽתֵיהֶ֣ם
their altars
an altar
#7
תִּתֹּ֔צוּ
with them ye shall destroy
to tear down
#8
וּמַצֵּֽבֹתָ֖ם
their images
something stationed, i.e., a column or (memorial stone); by analogy, an idol
#9
תְּשַׁבֵּ֑רוּ
and break down
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#10
וַאֲשֵֽׁירֵהֶם֙
their groves
asherah (or astarte) a phoenician goddess; also an image of the same
#11
תְּגַדֵּע֔וּן
and cut down
to fell a tree; generally, to destroy anything
#12
וּפְסִֽילֵיהֶ֖ם
their graven images
an idol
#13
תִּשְׂרְפ֥וּן
and burn
to be (causatively, set) on fire
#14
בָּאֵֽשׁ׃
with fire
fire (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Deuteronomy, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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