Exodus 38:5

Authorized King James Version

And he cast four rings for the four ends of the grate of brass, to be places for the staves.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּצֹ֞ק
And he cast
properly, to pour out (transitive or intransitive); by implication, to melt or cast as metal; by extension, to place firmly, to stiffen or grow hard
#2
בְּאַרְבַּ֥ע
for the four
four
#3
טַבָּעֹ֛ת
rings
properly, a seal (as sunk into the wax), i.e., signet (for sealing); hence (generally) a ring of any kind
#4
בְּאַרְבַּ֥ע
for the four
four
#5
הַקְּצָוֹ֖ת
ends
a limit
#6
לְמִכְבַּ֣ר
of the grate
a grate
#7
הַנְּחֹ֑שֶׁת
of brass
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
#8
בָּתִּ֖ים
to be places
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#9
לַבַּדִּֽים׃
for the staves
properly, separation; by implication, a part of the body, branch of a tree, bar for carrying; figuratively, chief of a city; especially (with preposit

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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