Joshua 21:38

Authorized King James Version

And out of the tribe of Gad, Ramoth in Gilead with her suburbs, to be a city of refuge for the slayer; and Mahanaim with her suburbs,

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּמִמַּטֵּה

H4294

And out of the tribe

a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),

גָ֗ד

H1410

of Gad

gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

עִיר֙

H5892

to be a city

a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)

מִקְלַ֣ט

H4733

of refuge

an asylum (as a receptacle)

הָֽרֹצֵ֔חַ

H7523

for the slayer

properly, to dash in pieces, i.e., kill (a human being), especially to murder

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

רָמֹ֥ת

H7433

Ramoth

ramoth-gilad, a place east of the jordan

בַּגִּלְעָ֖ד

H1568

in Gilead

gilad, a region east of the jordan; also the name of three israelites

#10

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#11

מִגְרָשֶֽׁהָ׃

H4054

with her suburbs

a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea

#12

וְאֶֽת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#13

מַחֲנַ֖יִם

H4266

and Mahanaim

machanajim, a place in palestine

#14

וְאֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#15

מִגְרָשֶֽׁהָ׃

H4054

with her suburbs

a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Joshua. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Joshua 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 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?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this verse's literary context within Joshua chapter 21 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

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