Leviticus 18:13

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy mother's sister: for she is thy mother's near kinswoman.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עֶרְוַ֥ת
the nakedness
nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)
#2
אֲחֽוֹת
sister
a sister (used very widely [like h0251], literally and figuratively)
#3
אִמְּךָ֖
for she is thy mother's
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#4
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
תְגַלֵּ֑ה
Thou shalt not uncover
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
שְׁאֵ֥ר
near kinswoman
flesh (as swelling out), as living or for food; generally food of any kind; figuratively, kindred by blood
#8
אִמְּךָ֖
for she is thy mother's
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#9
הִֽוא׃
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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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