Exodus 20:26

Authorized King James Version

Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תַעֲלֶ֥ה
Neither shalt thou go up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#3
בְמַֽעֲלֹ֖ת
by steps
elevation, i.e., the act (literally, a journey to a higher place, figuratively, a thought arising), or (concretely) the condition (literally, a step o
#4
עַֽל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
מִזְבְּחִ֑י
unto mine altar
an altar
#6
אֲשֶׁ֛ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#7
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
תִגָּלֶ֥ה
be not discovered
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
#9
עֶרְוָֽתְךָ֖
that thy nakedness
nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)
#10
עָלָֽיו׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Exodus.

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

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