Exodus 5:16

Authorized King James Version

There is no straw given unto thy servants, and they say to us, Make brick: and, behold, thy servants are beaten; but the fault is in thine own people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
תֶּ֗בֶן
There is no straw
properly, material, i.e., (specifically) refuse haum or stalks of grain (as chopped in threshing and used for fodder)
#2
אֵ֤ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#3
נִתָּן֙
given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#4
עֲבָדֶ֛יךָ
and behold thy servants
a servant
#5
וּלְבֵנִ֛ים
brick
a brick (from the whiteness of the clay)
#6
אֹֽמְרִ֥ים
and they say
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
לָ֖נוּ
H0
#8
עֲשׂ֑וּ
to us Make
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
וְהִנֵּ֧ה
lo!
#10
עֲבָדֶ֛יךָ
and behold thy servants
a servant
#11
מֻכִּ֖ים
are beaten
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#12
וְחָטָ֥את
but the fault
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn
#13
עַמֶּֽךָ׃
is in thine own people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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

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