Leviticus 1:4

Authorized King James Version

And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְסָמַ֣ךְ
And he shall put
to prop (literally or figuratively); reflexively, to lean upon or take hold of (in a favorable or unfavorable sense)
#2
יָד֔וֹ
his hand
a hand (the open one [indicating power, means, direction, etc.], in distinction from h3709, the closed one); used (as noun, adverb, etc.) in a great v
#3
עַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#4
רֹ֣אשׁ
upon the head
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#5
הָֽעֹלָ֑ה
of the burnt offering
a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
#6
וְנִרְצָ֥ה
and it shall be accepted
to be pleased with; specifically, to satisfy a debt
#7
ל֖וֹ
H0
#8
לְכַפֵּ֥ר
for him to make atonement
to cover (specifically with bitumen)
#9
עָלָֽיו׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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