Leviticus 19:31

Authorized King James Version

Regard not them that have familiar spirits, neither seek after wizards, to be defiled by them: I am the LORD your God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#2
תִּפְנ֤וּ
Regard
to turn; by implication, to face, i.e., appear, look, etc
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
הָֽאֹבֹת֙
not them that have familiar spirits
properly, a mumble, i.e., a water-skin (from its hollow sound); hence a necromancer (ventriloquist, as from a jar)
#5
וְאֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
הַיִּדְּעֹנִ֔ים
after wizards
properly, a knowing one; specifically, a conjurer; (by impl) a ghost
#7
אַל
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
#8
תְּבַקְשׁ֖וּ
neither seek
to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after
#9
לְטָמְאָ֣ה
to be defiled
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#10
בָהֶ֑ם
H0
#11
אֲנִ֖י
i
#12
יְהוָ֥ה
by them I am the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#13
אֱלֹֽהֵיכֶֽם׃
your 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

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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