Leviticus 26:19

Authorized King James Version

And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as iron, and your earth as brass:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְשָֽׁבַרְתִּ֖י
And I will break
to burst (literally or figuratively)
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
גְּא֣וֹן
the pride
the same as h1346
#4
עֻזְּכֶ֑ם
of your power
strength in various applications (force, security, majesty, praise)
#5
וְנָֽתַתִּ֤י
and I will make
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
שְׁמֵיכֶם֙
your heaven
the sky (as aloft; the dual perhaps alluding to the visible arch in which the clouds move, as well as to the higher ether where the celestial bodies r
#8
כַּבַּרְזֶ֔ל
as iron
iron (as cutting); by extension, an iron implement
#9
וְאֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
אַרְצְכֶ֖ם
and your earth
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)
#11
כַּנְּחֻשָֽׁה׃
as brass
copper

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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