Exodus 6:19

Authorized King James Version

And the sons of Merari; Mahali and Mushi: these are the families of Levi according to their generations.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּבְנֵ֥י
And the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
מְרָרִ֖י
of Merari
merari, an israelite
#3
מַחְלִ֣י
Mahali
machli, the name of two israelites
#4
וּמוּשִׁ֑י
and Mushi
mushi, a levite
#5
אֵ֛לֶּה
these or those
#6
מִשְׁפְּחֹ֥ת
these are the families
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#7
הַלֵּוִ֖י
of Levi
levi, a son of jacob
#8
לְתֹֽלְדֹתָֽם׃
according to their generations
(plural only) descent, i.e., family; (figuratively) history

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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