Ezekiel 4:15

Authorized King James Version

Then he said unto me, Lo, I have given thee cow's dung for man's dung, and thou shalt prepare thy bread therewith.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּ֣אמֶר
Then he said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
אֵלַ֔י
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
רְאֵ֗ה
unto me Lo
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#4
נָתַ֤תִּֽי
I have given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#5
לְךָ֙
H0
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
צְפִועֵ֣י
dung
excrement (as protruded)
#8
הַבָּקָ֔ר
thee cow's
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
#9
תַּ֖חַת
the bottom (as depressed); only adverbially, below (often with prepositional prefix underneath), in lieu of, etc
#10
גֶּלְלֵ֣י
dung
dung (plural balls of dung)
#11
הָֽאָדָ֑ם
for man's
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#12
וְעָשִׂ֥יתָ
and thou shalt prepare
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#13
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
לַחְמְךָ֖
thy bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#15
עֲלֵיהֶֽם׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezekiel, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Ezekiel.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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