Joshua 21:7

Authorized King James Version

The children of Merari by their families had out of the tribe of Reuben, and out of the tribe of Gad, and out of the tribe of Zebulun, twelve cities.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לִבְנֵ֨י
The children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
מְרָרִ֜י
of Merari
merari, an israelite
#3
לְמִשְׁפְּחֹתָ֗ם
by their families
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#4
וּמִמַּטֵּ֣ה
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),
#5
רְאוּבֵ֤ן
of Reuben
reuben, a son of jacob
#6
וּמִמַּטֵּ֣ה
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),
#7
גָד֙
of Gad
gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet
#8
וּמִמַּטֵּ֣ה
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),
#9
זְבוּלֻ֔ן
of Zebulun
zebulon, a son of jacob; also his territory and tribe
#10
עָרִ֖ים
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#11
שְׁתֵּ֥ים
twelve
two; also (as ordinal) twofold
#12
עֶשְׂרֵֽה׃
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth

Analysis

Within the broader context of Joshua, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Joshua.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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