Ezekiel 44:31

Authorized King James Version

The priests shall not eat of any thing that is dead of itself, or torn, whether it be fowl or beast.

Word-by-Word Analysis

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

נְבֵלָה֙

H5038

of any thing that is dead of itself

a flabby thing, i.e., a carcase or carrion (human or bestial, often collectively); figuratively, an idol

וּטְרֵפָ֔ה

H2966

or torn

prey, i.e., flocks devoured by animals

מִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הָע֖וֹף

H5775

whether it be fowl

a bird (as covered with feathers, or rather as covering with wings), often collectively

וּמִן

H4480

properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses

הַבְּהֵמָ֑ה

H929

or beast

properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)

לֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יֹאכְל֖וּ

H398

shall not eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#10

הַכֹּהֲנִֽים׃

H3548

The priests

literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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