Leviticus 27:12

Authorized King James Version

And the priest shall value it, whether it be good or bad: as thou valuest it, who art the priest, so shall it be.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהֶֽעֱרִ֤יךְ
shall value
to set in a row, i.e., arrange, put in order (in a very wide variety of applications)
#2
הַכֹּהֵ֖ן
And the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#3
אֹתָ֔הּ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
וּבֵ֣ין
it whether
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#5
ט֖וֹב
it be good
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
#6
וּבֵ֣ין
it whether
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
#7
רָ֑ע
bad
bad or (as noun) evil (natural or moral)
#8
כְּעֶרְכְּךָ֥
as thou valuest
a pile, equipment, estimate
#9
הַכֹּהֵ֖ן
And the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#10
כֵּ֥ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#11
יִֽהְיֶֽה׃
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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