Exodus 28:36

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
And thou shalt make
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
צִּ֖יץ
a plate
properly, glistening, i.e., a burnished plate; a wing (as gleaming in the air)
#3
זָהָ֣ב
gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#4
טָה֑וֹר
of pure
pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)
#5
וּפִתַּחְתָּ֤
and grave
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
#6
עָלָיו֙
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
פִּתּוּחֵ֣י
upon it like the engravings
sculpture (in low or high relief or even intaglio)
#8
חֹתָ֔ם
of a signet
a signature-ring
#9
קֹ֖דֶשׁ
HOLINESS
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#10
לַֽיהוָֽה׃
TO THE LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of holiness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about holiness, 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 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 holiness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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