Judges 13:4

Authorized King James Version

Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּה֙
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
הִשָּׁ֣מְרִי
Now therefore beware
properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc
#3
נָ֔א
'i pray', 'now', or 'then'; added mostly to verbs (in the imperative or future), or to interjections, occasionally to an adverb or conjunction
#4
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#5
תִּשְׁתִּ֖י
I pray thee and drink
to imbibe (literally or figuratively)
#6
יַ֣יִן
not wine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#7
וְשֵׁכָ֑ר
nor strong drink
an intoxicant, i.e., intensely alcoholic liquor
#8
וְאַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#9
תֹּֽאכְלִ֖י
and eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#10
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#11
טָמֵֽא׃
not any unclean
foul in a religious sense

Analysis

Within the broader context of Judges, 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 Judges.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources