Leviticus 6:13

Authorized King James Version

The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵ֗שׁ
The fire
fire (literally or figuratively)
#2
תָּמִ֛יד
shall ever
properly, continuance (as indefinite extension); but used only (attributively as adjective) constant (or adverbially, constantly); elliptically the re
#3
תּוּקַ֥ד
be burning
to burn
#4
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#5
הַמִּזְבֵּ֖חַ
upon the altar
an altar
#6
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#7
תִכְבֶֽה׃
it shall never go out
to expire or (causatively) to extinguish (fire, light, anger)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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