Exodus 40:37

Authorized King James Version

But if the cloud were not taken up, then they journeyed not till the day that it was taken up.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#3
הֵעָֽלֹתֽוֹ׃
that it was taken up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#4
הֶֽעָנָ֑ן
But if the cloud
a cloud (as covering the sky), i.e., the nimbus or thunder-cloud
#5
וְלֹ֣א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
יִסְע֔וּ
then they journeyed
properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
#7
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#8
י֖וֹם
not till the day
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#9
הֵעָֽלֹתֽוֹ׃
that it was taken up
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative

Analysis

Within the broader context of Exodus, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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