Exodus 21:14

Authorized King James Version

But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take him from mine altar, that he may die.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכִֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
יָזִ֥ד
come presumptuously
to seethe; figuratively, to be insolent
#3
אִ֛ישׁ
But if a man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
רֵעֵ֖הוּ
upon his neighbour
an associate (more or less close)
#6
לְהָרְג֣וֹ
to slay
to smite with deadly intent
#7
בְעָרְמָ֑ה
him with guile
trickery; or (in a good sense) discretion
#8
מֵעִ֣ם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#9
מִזְבְּחִ֔י
him from mine altar
an altar
#10
תִּקָּחֶ֖נּוּ
thou shalt take
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#11
לָמֽוּת׃
that he may die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

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

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