Exodus 34:16

Authorized King James Version

And thou take of their daughters unto thy sons, and their daughters go a whoring after their gods, and make thy sons go a whoring after their gods.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וְלָֽקַחְתָּ֥

H3947

And thou take

to take (in the widest variety of applications)

בְנֹתָ֗יו

H1323

and their daughters

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

בָּנֶ֔יךָ

H1121

thy 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

וְהִזְנוּ֙

H2181

and make

to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (

בְנֹתָ֗יו

H1323

and their daughters

a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)

אַֽחֲרֵ֖י

H310

after

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

אֱלֹֽהֵיהֶֽן׃

H430

their gods

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

וְהִזְנוּ֙

H2181

and make

to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (

אֶת

H853

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

#10

בָּנֶ֔יךָ

H1121

thy 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

#11

אַֽחֲרֵ֖י

H310

after

properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

#12

אֱלֹֽהֵיהֶֽן׃

H430

their gods

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty 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?
How does this verse's literary context within Exodus chapter 34 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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