Leviticus 11:43

Authorized King James Version

Ye shall not make yourselves abominable with any creeping thing that creepeth, neither shall ye make yourselves unclean with them, that ye should be defiled thereby.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תְּשַׁקְּצוּ֙
Ye shall not make
to be filthy, i.e., (intensively) to loathe, pollute
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
נַפְשֹׁ֣תֵיכֶ֔ם
yourselves
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#5
בְּכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
הַשֶּׁ֖רֶץ
with any creeping thing
a swarm, i.e., active mass of minute animals
#7
הַשֹּׁרֵ֑ץ
that creepeth
to wriggle, i.e., (by implication) swarm or abound
#8
וְלֹ֤א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
תִֽטַּמְּאוּ֙
with them that ye should be defiled
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#10
בָּהֶ֔ם
H0
#11
וְנִטְמֵתֶ֖ם
neither shall ye make yourselves unclean
to be impure in a religious sense
#12
בָּֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources