Ezra 8:34

Authorized King James Version

By number and by weight of every one: and all the weight was written at that time.

Word-by-Word Analysis

בְּמִסְפָּ֥ר

H4557

By number

a number, definite (arithmetical) or indefinite (large, innumerable; small, a few); also (abstractly) narration

הַמִּשְׁקָ֖ל

H4948

and by weight

weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act)

לַכֹּ֑ל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

וַיִּכָּתֵ֥ב

H3789

was written

to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)

כָּֽל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

הַמִּשְׁקָ֖ל

H4948

and by weight

weight (numerically estimated); hence, weighing (the act)

בָּעֵ֥ת

H6256

at that time

time, especially (adverb with preposition) now, when, etc

הַהִֽיא׃

H1931

he (she or it); only expressed when emphatic or without a verb; also (intensively) self, or (especially with the article) the same; sometimes (as demo

Analysis

Within the broader context of Ezra, 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 Ezra.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Ezra Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?