Leviticus 4:20

Authorized King James Version

And he shall do with the bullock as he did with the bullock for a sin offering, so shall he do with this: and the priest shall make an atonement for them, and it shall be forgiven them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
יַֽעֲשֶׂה
And he shall do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
לְפַ֣ר
with the bullock
a bullock (apparently as breaking forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof)
#3
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֤ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
יַֽעֲשֶׂה
And he shall do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#5
לְפַ֣ר
with the bullock
a bullock (apparently as breaking forth in wild strength, or perhaps as dividing the hoof)
#6
הַֽחַטָּ֔את
for a sin offering
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender
#7
כֵּ֖ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#8
יַֽעֲשֶׂה
And he shall do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#9
לּ֑וֹ
H0
#10
וְכִפֶּ֧ר
shall make an atonement
to cover (specifically with bitumen)
#11
עֲלֵהֶ֛ם
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#12
הַכֹּהֵ֖ן
with this and the priest
literally one officiating, a priest; also (by courtesy) an acting priest (although a layman)
#13
וְנִסְלַ֥ח
for them and it shall be forgiven
to forgive
#14
לָהֶֽם׃
they (only used when emphatic)

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

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources