Leviticus 20:13

Authorized King James Version

If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֗ישׁ
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
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
יִשְׁכַּ֤ב
also 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
זָכָר֙
with mankind
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)
#6
מִשְׁכְּבֵ֣י
as he lieth
a bed (figuratively, a bier); abstractly, sleep; by euphemism, carnal intercourse
#7
אִשָּׁ֔ה
with a woman
a woman
#8
תּֽוֹעֵבָ֥ה
an abomination
properly, something disgusting (morally), i.e., (as noun) an abhorrence; especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol
#9
עָשׂ֖וּ
of them have committed
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#10
שְׁנֵיהֶ֑ם
both
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#11
יוּמָ֖תוּ
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#12
יוּמָ֖תוּ
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#13
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
#14
בָּֽם׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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