Exodus 12:24

Authorized King James Version

And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons for ever.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּשְׁמַרְתֶּ֖ם

H8104

And ye shall observe

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַדָּבָ֣ר

H1697

this thing

a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause

הַזֶּ֑ה

H2088

the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

לְחָק

H2706

for an ordinance

an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)

לְךָ֥

וּלְבָנֶ֖יךָ

H1121

to thee and to thy sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

עַד

H5704

for

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

עוֹלָֽם׃

H5769

ever

properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 12 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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