Leviticus 25:34

Authorized King James Version

But the field of the suburbs of their cities may not be sold; for it is their perpetual possession.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּֽשְׂדֵ֛ה
But the field
a field (as flat)
#2
מִגְרַ֥שׁ
of the suburbs
a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea
#3
עָֽרֵיהֶ֖ם
of their cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#4
לֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#5
יִמָּכֵ֑ר
may not be sold
to sell, literally (as merchandise, a daughter in marriage, into slavery), or figuratively (to surrender)
#6
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#7
אֲחֻזַּ֥ת
possession
something seized, i.e., a possession (especially of land)
#8
עוֹלָ֛ם
for it is their perpetual
properly, concealed, i.e., the vanishing point; generally, time out of mind (past or future), i.e., (practically) eternity; frequentatively, adverbial
#9
ה֖וּא
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
#10
לָהֶֽם׃
H0

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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