Leviticus 19:15

Authorized King James Version

Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty: but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תַעֲשׂ֥וּ
Ye shall do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#3
עָ֙וֶל֙
no unrighteousness
(moral) evil
#4
בַּמִּשְׁפָּ֔ט
in judgment
properly, a verdict (favorable or unfavorable) pronounced judicially, especially a sentence or formal decree (human or (participant's) divine law, ind
#5
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
תִשָּׂ֣א
thou shalt not respect
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#7
פְּנֵ֣י
the person
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#8
דָ֔ל
of the poor
properly, dangling, i.e., (by implication) weak or thin
#9
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
תֶהְדַּ֖ר
nor honour
to swell up (literally or figuratively, active or passive); by implication, to favor or honor, be high or proud
#11
פְּנֵ֣י
the person
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#12
גָד֑וֹל
of the mighty
great (in any sense); hence, older; also insolent
#13
בְּצֶ֖דֶק
but in righteousness
the right (natural, moral or legal); also (abstractly) equity or (figuratively) prosperity
#14
תִּשְׁפֹּ֥ט
shalt thou judge
to judge, i.e., pronounce sentence (for or against); by implication, to vindicate or punish; by extenssion, to govern; passively, to litigate (literal
#15
עֲמִיתֶֽךָ׃
thy neighbour
companionship; hence (concretely) a comrade or kindred man

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, 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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