Exodus 5:18

Authorized King James Version

Go therefore now, and work; for there shall no straw be given you, yet shall ye deliver the tale of bricks.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּה֙
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
לְכ֣וּ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#3
עִבְד֔וּ
therefore now and work
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#4
וְתֶ֖בֶן
for there shall no straw
properly, material, i.e., (specifically) refuse haum or stalks of grain (as chopped in threshing and used for fodder)
#5
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
תִּתֵּֽנּוּ׃
be given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#7
לָכֶ֑ם
H0
#8
וְתֹ֥כֶן
the tale
a fixed quantity
#9
לְבֵנִ֖ים
of bricks
a brick (from the whiteness of the clay)
#10
תִּתֵּֽנּוּ׃
be given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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