Exodus 23:33

Authorized King James Version

They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis

לֹ֤א

H3808

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

יֵֽשְׁבוּ֙

H3427

They shall not dwell

properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry

בְּאַרְצְךָ֔

H776

in thy land

the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

פֶּן

H6435

properly, removal; used only (in the construction) adverb as conjunction, lest

יַֽחֲטִ֥יאוּ

H2398

lest they make thee sin

properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn

אֹֽתְךָ֖

H853

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

לִ֑י

כִּ֤י

H3588

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

תַֽעֲבֹד֙

H5647

against me for if thou serve

to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc

#10

אֶת

H853

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

#11

אֱלֹ֣הֵיהֶ֔ם

H430

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

#12

כִּֽי

H3588

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

#13

יִהְיֶ֥ה

H1961

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

#14

לְךָ֖

#15

לְמוֹקֵֽשׁ׃

H4170

it will surely be a snare

a noose (for catching animals) (literally or figuratively); by implication, a hook (for the nose)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

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