Exodus 22:21

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt.

Word-by-Word Analysis

גֵרִ֥ים

H1616

a stranger

properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner

לֹֽא

H3808

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

תוֹנֶ֖ה

H3238

Thou shalt neither vex

to rage or be violent; by implication, to suppress, to maltreat

וְלֹ֣א

H3808

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

תִלְחָצֶ֑נּוּ

H3905

nor oppress

properly, to press, i.e., (figuratively) to distress

כִּֽי

H3588

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

גֵרִ֥ים

H1616

a stranger

properly, a guest; by implication, a foreigner

הֱיִיתֶ֖ם

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בְּאֶ֥רֶץ

H776

in the land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

#10

מִצְרָֽיִם׃

H4714

of Egypt

mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

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 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 this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 22 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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?

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