Leviticus 22:21

Authorized King James Version

And whosoever offereth a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD to accomplish his vow, or a freewill offering in beeves or sheep, it shall be perfect to be accepted; there shall be no blemish therein.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֗ישׁ
H376
And whosoever
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
כִּֽי
H3588
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#3
יַקְרִ֤יב
H7126
offereth
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#4
זֶֽבַח
H2077
a sacrifice
properly, a slaughter, i.e., the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act)
#5
שְׁלָמִים֙
H8002
of peace offerings
properly, requital, i.e., a (voluntary) sacrifice in thanks
#6
לַֽיהוָ֔ה
H3068
unto the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
לְפַלֵּא
H6381
to accomplish
properly, perhaps to separate, i.e., distinguish (literally or figuratively); by implication, to be (causatively, make) great, difficult, wonderful
#8
נֶ֙דֶר֙
H5088
his vow
a promise (to god); also (concretely) a thing promised
#9
א֣וֹ
H176
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#10
לִנְדָבָ֔ה
H5071
or a freewill offering
properly (abstractly) spontaneity, or (adjectively) spontaneous; also (concretely) a spontaneous or (by inference, in plural) abundant gift
#11
בַּבָּקָ֖ר
H1241
in beeves
a beeve or an animal of the ox family of either gender (as used for plowing); collectively, a herd
#12
א֣וֹ
H176
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#13
בַצֹּ֑אן
H6629
or sheep
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)
#14
תָּמִ֤ים
H8549
it shall be perfect
entire (literally, figuratively or morally); also (as noun) integrity, truth
#15
יִֽהְיֶה֙
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#16
לְרָצ֔וֹן
H7522
to be accepted
delight (especially as shown)
#17
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#18
מ֖וּם
H3971
there shall be no blemish
a blemish (physically or morally)
#19
לֹ֥א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#20
יִֽהְיֶה
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#21
בּֽוֹ׃
H0

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of peace connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about peace, 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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