Exodus 39:30

Authorized King James Version

And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיַּעֲשׂ֛וּ
And they made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
צִ֥יץ
the plate
properly, glistening, i.e., a burnished plate; a wing (as gleaming in the air)
#4
נֵֽזֶר
crown
properly, something set apart, i.e., (abstractly) dedication (of a priet or nazirite); hence (concretely) unshorn locks; also (by implication) a chapl
#5
קֹ֖דֶשׁ
HOLINESS
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#6
זָהָ֣ב
gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#7
טָה֑וֹר
of pure
pure (in a physical, chemical, ceremonial or moral sense)
#8
וַיִּכְתְּב֣וּ
and wrote
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#9
עָלָ֗יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
מִכְתַּב֙
upon it a writing
a thing written, the characters, or a document (letter, copy, edict, poem)
#11
פִּתּוּחֵ֣י
like to the engravings
sculpture (in low or high relief or even intaglio)
#12
חוֹתָ֔ם
of a signet
a signature-ring
#13
קֹ֖דֶשׁ
HOLINESS
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#14
לַֽיהוָֽה׃
TO THE LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of holiness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about holiness, 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

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 holiness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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