Exodus 21:18

And if men strive together, and one smite another with a stone, or with his fist, and he die not, but keepeth his bed:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְכִֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

יְרִיבֻ֣ן

H7378

strive

properly, to toss, i.e., grapple; mostly figuratively, to wrangle, i.e., hold a controversy; (by implication) to defend

אִישׁ֙

H376

together and one

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)

וְהִכָּה

H5221

smite

to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)

אִישׁ֙

H376

together and one

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)

אֶת

H853

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

רֵעֵ֔הוּ

H7453

another

an associate (more or less close)

בְּאֶ֖בֶן

H68

with a stone

a stone

א֣וֹ

H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

#10

בְאֶגְרֹ֑ף

H106

with his fist

the clenched hand

#11

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#12

יָמ֖וּת

H4191

and he die

to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

#13

וְנָפַ֥ל

H5307

not but keepeth

to fall, in a great variety of applications (intransitive or causative, literal or figurative)

#14

לְמִשְׁכָּֽב׃

H4904

his bed

a bed (figuratively, a bier); abstractly, sleep; by euphemism, carnal intercourse

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the period of Egyptian bondage and wilderness wandering (c. 1440-1400 BCE) 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

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?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Moses