Leviticus 15:4

Authorized King James Version

Every bed, whereon he lieth that hath the issue, is unclean: and every thing, whereon he sitteth, shall be unclean.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
הַמִּשְׁכָּ֗ב
Every bed
a bed (figuratively, a bier); abstractly, sleep; by euphemism, carnal intercourse
#3
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
יִשְׁכַּ֥ב
whereon he lieth
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#5
עָלָ֛יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
הַזָּ֖ב
that hath the issue
to flow freely (as water), i.e., (specifically) to have a (sexual) flux; figuratively, to waste away; also to overflow
#7
יִטְמָֽא׃
is unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#8
וְכָֽל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#9
הַכְּלִ֛י
and every thing
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
#10
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#11
יֵשֵׁ֥ב
whereon he sitteth
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#12
עָלָ֖יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
יִטְמָֽא׃
is unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)

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 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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