Exodus 23:24

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תִשְׁתַּחֲוֶ֤ה
H7812
Thou shalt not bow down
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)
#3
לֵאלֹֽהֵיהֶם֙
H430
to their 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
#4
וְלֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
תָֽעָבְדֵ֔ם
H5647
nor serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#6
וְלֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
תַֽעֲשֶׂ֖ה
H6213
them nor do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#8
כְּמַֽעֲשֵׂיהֶ֑ם
H4639
after their works
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
#9
כִּ֤י
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
תְּהָ֣רְסֵ֔ם
H2040
but thou shalt utterly
to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy
#11
תְּהָ֣רְסֵ֔ם
H2040
but thou shalt utterly
to pull down or in pieces, break, destroy
#12
תְּשַׁבֵּ֖ר
H7665
break down
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#13
תְּשַׁבֵּ֖ר
H7665
break down
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#14
מַצֵּבֹֽתֵיהֶֽם׃
H4676
their images
something stationed, i.e., a column or (memorial stone); by analogy, an idol

Analysis

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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