Leviticus 16:20

Authorized King James Version

And when he hath made an end of reconciling the holy place, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and the altar, he shall bring the live goat:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכִלָּה֙
And when he hath made an end
to end, whether intransitive (to cease, be finished, perish) or transitive (to complete, prepare, consume)
#2
מִכַּפֵּ֣ר
of reconciling
to cover (specifically with bitumen)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַקֹּ֔דֶשׁ
the holy
a sacred place or thing; rarely abstract, sanctity
#5
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
אֹ֥הֶל
place and the tabernacle
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
#7
מוֹעֵ֖ד
of the congregation
properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for
#8
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הַמִּזְבֵּ֑חַ
and the altar
an altar
#10
וְהִקְרִ֖יב
he shall bring
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#11
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#12
הַשָּׂעִ֥יר
goat
shaggy; as noun, a he-goat; by analogy, a faun
#13
הֶחָֽי׃
the live
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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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