Leviticus 24:17

Authorized King James Version

And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִ֕ישׁ
And he
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
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#3
יַכֶּ֖ה
that killeth
to strike (lightly or severely, literally or figuratively)
#4
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
any
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#6
אָדָ֑ם
man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#7
יוּמָֽת׃
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#8
יוּמָֽת׃
be put to death
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Leviticus Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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