Leviticus 20:21

Authorized King James Version

And if a man shall take his brother's wife, it is an unclean thing: he hath uncovered his brother's nakedness; they shall be childless.

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
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#3
יִקַּ֛ח
shall take
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#4
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
אֵ֥שֶׁת
wife
a woman
#6
אָחִ֛יו
his brother's
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#7
נִדָּ֣ה
it is an unclean thing
properly, rejection; by implication, impurity, especially personal (menstruation) or moral (idolatry, incest)
#8
הִ֑וא
he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo
#9
עֶרְוַ֥ת
nakedness
nudity, literally (especially the pudenda) or figuratively (disgrace, blemish)
#10
אָחִ֛יו
his brother's
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#11
גִּלָּ֖ה
he hath uncovered
to denude (especially in a disgraceful sense); by implication, to exile (captives being usually stripped); figuratively, to reveal
#12
עֲרִירִ֥ים
they shall be childless
bare, i.e., destitute (of children)
#13
יִֽהְיֽוּ׃
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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