Leviticus 11:12

Authorized King James Version

Whatsoever hath no fins nor scales in the waters, that shall be an abomination unto you.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֣ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
אֵֽין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#4
ל֛וֹ
H0
#5
סְנַפִּ֥יר
Whatsoever hath no fins
a fin (collectively)
#6
וְקַשְׂקֶ֖שֶׂת
nor scales
a scale (of a fish); hence a coat of mail (as composed of or covered with jointed plates of metal)
#7
בַּמָּ֑יִם
in the waters
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#8
שֶׁ֥קֶץ
that shall be an abomination
filth, i.e., (figuratively and specifically) an idolatrous object
#9
ה֖וּא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#10
לָכֶֽם׃
H0

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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