| 13. Linguistic Exegesis The verse employs an apodictic prohibition marked by the negation particle lo {לֹ֥֖א | lōʾ} immediately preceding the Qal imperfect verb tirtsach {תִּֿרְצָ֖͏ֽח | tir-ṣāḥ} ‘you shall murder’. This word order signals a categorical, timeless ban distinct from jussive constructions. The imperfect form underscores ongoing applicability, while tirtsach specifically denotes premeditated, unlawful killing, setting it apart from other Hebrew verbs for fatal acts in combat or ritual contexts. The terse, paratactic structure reflects standard Hebrew legal style, conveying a universal ethical norm. |