Ezekiel 21:16

Authorized King James Version

Go thee one way or other, either on the right hand, or on the left, whithersoever thy face is set.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הִתְאַחֲדִ֥י
Go thee one way or other
to unify, i.e., (figuratively) collect (one's thoughts)
#2
הֵימִ֖נִי
the right hand
to be right-handed or take the right-hand side
#3
הָשִׂ֣ימִי
either on
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
#4
הַשְׂמִ֑ילִי
or on the left
to use the left hand or pass in that direction
#5
אָ֖נָה
whithersoever
where?; hence, whither?, when?; also hither and thither
#6
פָּנַ֥יִךְ
thy face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#7
מֻעָדֽוֹת׃
is set
to fix upon (by agreement or appointment); by implication, to meet (at a stated time), to summon (to trial), to direct (in a certain quarter or positi

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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