Exodus 32:17

Authorized King James Version

And when Joshua heard the noise of the people as they shouted, he said unto Moses, There is a noise of war in the camp.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁמַ֧ע
heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#2
יְהוֹשֻׁ֛עַ
And when Joshua
jehoshua (i.e., joshua), the jewish leader
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
ק֥וֹל
There is a noise
a voice or sound
#5
הָעָ֖ם
of the people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#6
בְּרֵעֹ֑ה
as they shouted
a crash (of thunder), noise (of war), shout (of joy)
#7
וַיֹּ֙אמֶר֙
he said
to say (used with great latitude)
#8
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
מֹשֶׁ֔ה
unto Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#10
ק֥וֹל
There is a noise
a voice or sound
#11
מִלְחָמָ֖ה
of war
a battle (i.e., the engagement); generally, war (i.e., war-fare)
#12
בַּֽמַּחֲנֶה׃
in the camp
an encampment (of travellers or troops); hence, an army, whether literal (of soldiers) or figurative (of dancers, angels, cattle, locusts, stars; or e

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 Exodus.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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