Exodus 18:20

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt teach them ordinances and laws, and shalt shew them the way wherein they must walk, and the work that they must do.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהִזְהַרְתָּ֣ה
And thou shalt teach
figuratively, to enlighten (by caution)
#2
אֶתְהֶ֔ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַֽחֻקִּ֖ים
them ordinances
an enactment; hence, an appointment (of time, space, quantity, labor or usage)
#5
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הַתּוֹרֹ֑ת
and laws
a precept or statute, especially the decalogue or pentateuch
#7
וְהֽוֹדַעְתָּ֣
and shalt shew
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#8
לָהֶ֗ם
H0
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
הַדֶּ֙רֶךְ֙
them the way
a road (as trodden); figuratively, a course of life or mode of action, often adverb
#11
יֵ֣לְכוּ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#12
בָ֔הּ
H0
#13
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
הַֽמַּעֲשֶׂ֖ה
and the work
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
#15
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#16
יַֽעֲשֽׂוּן׃
that they must do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

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

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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