Leviticus 20:7

Authorized King James Version

Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the LORD your God.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהִ֨תְקַדִּשְׁתֶּ֔ם
Sanctify
to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)
#2
וִֽהְיִיתֶ֖ם
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#3
קְדֹשִׁ֑ים
yourselves therefore and be ye holy
sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary
#4
כִּ֛י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#5
אֲנִ֥י
i
#6
יְהוָ֖ה
for I am the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
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

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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