Leviticus 19:12

Authorized King James Version

And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תִשָּׁבְע֥וּ
And ye shall not swear
to seven oneself, i.e., swear (as if by repeating a declaration seven times)
#3
שֵׁ֥ם
by my name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#4
לַשָּׁ֑קֶר
falsely
an untruth; by implication, a sham (often adverbial)
#5
וְחִלַּלְתָּ֛
neither shalt thou profane
properly, to bore, i.e., (by implication) to wound, to dissolve; figuratively, to profane (a person, place or thing), to break (one's word), to begin
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
שֵׁ֥ם
by my name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#8
אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ
of thy God
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
#9
אֲנִ֥י
i
#10
יְהוָֽה׃
I am the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Leviticus. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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