Leviticus 21:18

Authorized King James Version

For whatsoever man he be that hath a blemish, he shall not approach: a blind man, or a lame, or he that hath a flat nose, or any thing superfluous,

Word-by-Word Analysis

כִּ֥י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

כָל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

אִ֤ישׁ

H376

For whatsoever 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)

אֲשֶׁר

H834

who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc

בּ֥וֹ

מ֖וּם

H3971

he be that hath a blemish

a blemish (physically or morally)

לֹ֣א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

יִקְרָ֑ב

H7126

he shall not approach

to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose

אִ֤ישׁ

H376

For whatsoever 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)

#10

עִוֵּר֙

H5787

a blind

blind (literally or figuratively)

#11

א֣וֹ

H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

#12

פִסֵּ֔חַ

H6455

or a lame

lame

#13

א֥וֹ

H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

#14

חָרֻ֖ם

H2763

or he that hath a flat nose

to seclude; specifically (by a ban) to devote to religious uses (especially destruction); physical and reflexive, to be blunt as to the nose

#15

א֥וֹ

H176

desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if

#16

שָׂרֽוּעַ׃

H8311

or any thing superfluous

to prolong, i.e., (reflex) be deformed by excess of members

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

In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

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Leviticus 21:18

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Study Resources