Leviticus 11:39

Authorized King James Version

And if any beast, of which ye may eat, die; he that toucheth the carcase thereof shall be unclean until the even.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכִ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
יָמוּת֙
die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#3
מִן
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
#4
הַבְּהֵמָ֔ה
And if any beast
properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)
#5
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
הִ֥יא
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
#7
לָכֶ֖ם
H0
#8
לְאָכְלָ֑ה
of which ye may eat
food
#9
הַנֹּגֵ֥עַ
he that toucheth
properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive
#10
בְּנִבְלָתָ֖הּ
the carcase
a flabby thing, i.e., a carcase or carrion (human or bestial, often collectively); figuratively, an idol
#11
יִטְמָ֥א
thereof shall be unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#12
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#13
הָעָֽרֶב׃
until the even
dusk

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Leviticus.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Leviticus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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