Leviticus 25:20

Authorized King James Version

And if ye shall say, What shall we eat the seventh year? behold, we shall not sow, nor gather in our increase:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכִ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
תֹֽאמְר֔וּ
And if ye shall say
to say (used with great latitude)
#3
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#4
נֹּאכַ֖ל
What shall we eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)
#5
בַּשָּׁנָ֣ה
year
a year (as a revolution of time)
#6
הַשְּׁבִיעִ֑ת
the seventh
seventh
#7
הֵ֚ן
lo!; also (as expressing surprise) if
#8
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#9
נִזְרָ֔ע
behold we shall not sow
to sow; figuratively, to disseminate, plant, fructify
#10
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#11
נֶֽאֱסֹ֖ף
nor gather
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#12
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#13
תְּבֽוּאָתֵֽנוּ׃
in our increase
income, i.e., produce (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Leviticus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

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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