Exodus 24:7

Authorized King James Version

And he took the book of the covenant, and read in the audience of the people: and they said, All that the LORD hath said will we do, and be obedient.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקַּח֙

H3947

And he took

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

סֵ֣פֶר

H5612

the book

properly, writing (the art or a document); by implication, a book

הַבְּרִ֔ית

H1285

of the covenant

a compact (because made by passing between pieces of flesh)

וַיִּקְרָ֖א

H7121

and read

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

בְּאָזְנֵ֣י

H241

in the audience

broadness. i.e., (concrete) the ear (from its form in man)

הָעָ֑ם

H5971

of the people

a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

וַיֹּ֣אמְר֔וּ

H559

and they said

to say (used with great latitude)

כֹּ֛ל

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

#10

דִּבֶּ֥ר

H1696

hath said

perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue

#11

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

All that the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#12

נַֽעֲשֶׂ֥ה

H6213

will we do

to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application

#13

וְנִשְׁמָֽע׃

H8085

and be obedient

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights covenant through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 covenant particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show treaty language and adoption practices from the ancient world, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of covenant differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 24 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

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