Exodus 29:15

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt also take one ram; and Aaron and his sons shall put their hands upon the head of the ram.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְאֶת

H853

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

הָאָֽיִל׃

H352

of the ram

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

הָֽאֶחָ֖ד

H259

one

properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first

תִּקָּ֑ח

H3947

Thou shalt also take

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

וְסָ֨מְכ֜וּ

H5564

shall put

to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively, to lean upon or take hold of (in a favorable or unfavorable sense)

אַֽהֲרֹ֧ן

H175

and Aaron

aharon, the brother of moses

וּבָנָ֛יו

H1121

and his sons

a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or

אֶת

H853

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

יְדֵיהֶ֖ם

H3027

their hands

a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v

#10

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

#11

רֹ֥אשׁ

H7218

upon the head

the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)

#12

הָאָֽיִל׃

H352

of the ram

properly, strength; hence, anything strong; specifically an oak or other strong tree

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Exodus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 29 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?

Related Resources

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

People

Moses