Exodus 34:8

Authorized King James Version

And Moses made haste, and bowed his head toward the earth, and worshipped.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיְמַהֵ֖ר
made haste
properly, to be liquid or flow easily, i.e., (by implication)
#2
מֹשֶׁ֑ה
And Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#3
וַיִּקֹּ֥ד
and bowed his head
to shrivel up, i.e., contract or bend the body (or neck) in deference
#4
אַ֖רְצָה
toward the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#5
וַיִּשְׁתָּֽחוּ׃
and worshipped
to depress, i.e., prostrate (especially reflexive, in homage to royalty or god)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Exodus. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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

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