Exodus 28:9

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt take two onyx stones, and grave on them the names of the children of Israel:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלָ֣קַחְתָּ֔
And thou shalt take
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
שְׁתֵּ֖י
two
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#4
אַבְנֵי
H68
stones
a stone
#5
שֹׁ֑הַם
onyx
a gem, probably the beryl (from its pale green color)
#6
וּפִתַּחְתָּ֣
and grave
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
#7
עֲלֵיהֶ֔ם
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
שְׁמ֖וֹת
on them the names
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#9
בְּנֵ֥י
of the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#10
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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