Leviticus 19:16

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לֹֽא
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#2
תֵלֵ֤ךְ
Thou shalt not go
to walk (literally or figuratively); causatively, to carry (in various senses)
#3
רָכִיל֙
up and down as a talebearer
a scandal-monger (as travelling about)
#4
בְּעַמֶּ֔יךָ
among thy people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#5
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
תַֽעֲמֹ֖ד
neither shalt thou stand
to stand, in various relations (literal and figurative, intransitive and transitive)
#7
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#8
דַּ֣ם
against the blood
blood (as that which when shed causes death) of man or an animal; by analogy, the juice of the grape; figuratively (especially in the plural) bloodshe
#9
רֵעֶ֑ךָ
of thy neighbour
an associate (more or less close)
#10
אֲנִ֖י
i
#11
יְהוָֽה׃
I am the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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