Leviticus 11:41

Authorized King James Version

And every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth shall be an abomination; it shall not be eaten.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
הַשֶּׁ֖רֶץ
And every creeping
a swarm, i.e., active mass of minute animals
#3
הַשֹּׁרֵ֣ץ
thing that creepeth
to wriggle, i.e., (by implication) swarm or abound
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הָאָ֑רֶץ
upon the earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#6
שֶׁ֥קֶץ
shall be an abomination
filth, i.e., (figuratively and specifically) an idolatrous object
#7
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
#8
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
יֵֽאָכֵֽל׃
it shall not be eaten
to eat (literally or figuratively)

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

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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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