Leviticus 14:5

Authorized King James Version

And the priest shall command that one of the birds be killed in an earthen vessel over running water:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְצִוָּה֙
shall command
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#2
הַכֹּהֵ֔ן
And the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#3
וְשָׁחַ֖ט
be killed
to slaughter (in sacrifice or massacre)
#4
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
הַצִּפּ֣וֹר
of the birds
a little bird (as hopping)
#6
הָֽאֶחָ֑ת
that one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
כְּלִי
vessel
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
#9
חֶ֖רֶשׂ
in an earthen
a piece of pottery
#10
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#11
מַ֥יִם
water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#12
חַיִּֽים׃
over running
alive; hence, raw (flesh); fresh (plant, water, year), strong; also (as noun, especially in the feminine singular and masculine plural) life (or livin

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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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