Leviticus 14:20

Authorized King James Version

And the priest shall offer the burnt offering and the meat offering upon the altar: and the priest shall make an atonement for him, and he shall be clean.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהֶֽעֱלָ֧ה
shall offer
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#2
הַכֹּהֵ֖ן
And the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הָֽעֹלָ֥ה
the burnt offering
a step or (collectively, stairs, as ascending); usually a holocaust (as going up in smoke)
#5
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הַמִּנְחָ֖ה
and the meat offering
a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)
#7
הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חָה
upon the altar
an altar
#8
וְכִפֶּ֥ר
shall make an atonement
to cover (specifically with bitumen)
#9
עָלָ֛יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#10
הַכֹּהֵ֖ן
And the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#11
וְטָהֵֽר׃
for him and he shall be clean
to be pure (physical sound, clear, unadulterated; levitically, uncontaminated; morally, innocent or holy)

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

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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources