Leviticus 21:8

Authorized King James Version

Thou shalt sanctify him therefore; for he offereth the bread of thy God: he shall be holy unto thee: for I the LORD, which sanctify you, am holy.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
מְקַדִּשְׁכֶֽם׃
Thou shalt sanctify
to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)
#2
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
לֶ֥חֶם
the bread
food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)
#5
אֱלֹהֶ֖יךָ
of thy 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
#6
ה֣וּא
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
#7
מַקְרִ֑יב
him therefore for he offereth
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#8
קָד֔וֹשׁ
he shall be holy
sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary
#9
יִֽהְיֶה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#10
לָּ֔ךְ
H0
#11
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#12
קָד֔וֹשׁ
he shall be holy
sacred (ceremonially or morally); (as noun) god (by eminence), an angel, a saint, a sanctuary
#13
אֲנִ֥י
i
#14
יְהוָ֖ה
unto thee for I the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#15
מְקַדִּשְׁכֶֽם׃
Thou shalt sanctify
to be (causatively, make, pronounce or observe as) clean (ceremonially or morally)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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