Leviticus 20:12

Authorized King James Version

And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood shall be upon them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֗ישׁ
And if a man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#2
אֲשֶׁ֤ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
יִשְׁכַּב֙
lie
to lie down (for rest, sexual connection, decease or any other purpose)
#4
אֶת
properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc
#5
כַּלָּת֔וֹ
with his daughter in law
a bride (as if perfect); hence, a son's wife
#6
יֽוּמְת֖וּ
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#7
יֽוּמְת֖וּ
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#8
שְׁנֵיהֶ֑ם
both
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#9
תֶּ֥בֶל
confusion
mixture, i.e., unnatural bestiality
#10
עָשׂ֖וּ
they have wrought
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#11
דְּמֵיהֶ֥ם
their 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
#12
בָּֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 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 revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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