Exodus 23:13

Authorized King James Version

And in all things that I have said unto you be circumspect: and make no mention of the name of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּבְכֹ֛ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

אָמַ֥רְתִּי

H559

And in all things that I have said

to say (used with great latitude)

אֲלֵיכֶ֖ם

H413

near, with or among; often in general, to

תִּשָּׁמֵ֑רוּ

H8104

unto you be circumspect

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

וְשֵׁ֨ם

H8034

of the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

אֱלֹהִ֤ים

H430

gods

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

אֲחֵרִים֙

H312

of other

properly, hinder; generally, next, other, etc

לֹ֣א

H3808

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

#10

תַזְכִּ֔ירוּ

H2142

and make no mention

properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male

#11

לֹ֥א

H3808

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

#12

יִשָּׁמַ֖ע

H8085

neither let it be heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

#13

עַל

H5921

out

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#14

פִּֽיךָ׃

H6310

of thy mouth

the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 23 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

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

People

Moses