| 20. Linguistic Exegesis The clause begins with the participle zoveach {זֹבֵחַ | zô-wê-ăḥ} functioning as a nominal subject. This is followed by la’elohim {לָאֱלֹהִים | lā-ʾĕ-lō-hîm}, which sets a broad referent outside the covenant. The verb yachoram {יָחֳרָם | yā-ḥô-rām}, in the Qal imperfect passive, issues a decree of irrevocable destruction. The particle bilti {בִּלְתִּי | bil-tî} introduces exclusivity with the clause laYHWH levado {לַיהוָה לְבַדּוֹ | lăY-hō-wāh lə-bad-dô}, reinforcing strict worship monotheism. The structure of participle + passive verb foregrounds the offender and divine judgment, underscoring the absolute authority of the LORD. |