Leviticus 21:2

Authorized King James Version

But for his kin, that is near unto him, that is, for his mother, and for his father, and for his son, and for his daughter, and for his brother,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
אִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#3
לִשְׁאֵר֔וֹ
But for his kin
flesh (as swelling out), as living or for food; generally food of any kind; figuratively, kindred by blood
#4
הַקָּרֹ֖ב
that is near
near (in place, kindred or time)
#5
אֵלָ֑יו
near, with or among; often in general, to
#6
לְאִמּ֣וֹ
unto him that is for his mother
a mother (as the bond of the family); in a wide sense (both literally and figuratively [like father])
#7
וּלְאָבִ֔יו
H1
and for his father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#8
וְלִבְנ֥וֹ
and for his son
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#9
וּלְבִתּ֖וֹ
and for his daughter
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#10
וּלְאָחִֽיו׃
and for his brother
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Leviticus. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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