Numbers 1:49

Authorized King James Version

Only thou shalt not number the tribe of Levi, neither take the sum of them among the children of Israel:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֣ךְ
H389
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#2
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
מַטֵּ֤ה
H4294
the tribe
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#4
לֵוִי֙
H3878
of Levi
levi, a son of jacob
#5
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#6
תִפְקֹ֔ד
H6485
Only thou shalt not number
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
#7
וְאֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
רֹאשָׁ֖ם
H7218
the sum
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#9
לֹ֣א
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#10
תִשָּׂ֑א
H5375
neither take
to lift, in a great variety of applications, literal and figurative, absolute and relative
#11
בְּת֖וֹךְ
H8432
of them among
a bisection, i.e., (by implication) the center
#12
בְּנֵ֥י
H1121
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
#13
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
H3478
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, 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 establishing foundational concepts crucial to Numbers's theological argument.

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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