Exodus 28:42

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach:

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַֽעֲשֵׂ֤ה

H6213

And thou shalt make

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

לָהֶם֙

מִכְנְסֵי

H4370

breeches

(only in dual) drawers (from concealing the private parts)

בָ֔ד

H906

them linen

flaxen thread or yarn; hence, a linen garment

לְכַסּ֖וֹת

H3680

to cover

properly, to plump, i.e., fill up hollows; by implication, to cover (for clothing or secrecy)

בְּשַׂ֣ר

H1320

their nakedness

flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man

עֶרְוָ֑ה

H6172

nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)

מִמָּתְנַ֥יִם

H4975

from the loins

properly, the waist or small of the back; only in plural the loins

וְעַד

H5704

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

#10

יְרֵכַ֖יִם

H3409

even unto the thighs

the thigh (from its fleshy softness); by euphemistically the generative parts; figuratively, a shank, flank, side

#11

יִֽהְיֽוּ׃

H1961

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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

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

People

Moses