Numbers 11:6

Authorized King James Version

But now our soul is dried away: there is nothing at all, beside this manna, before our eyes.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְעַתָּ֛ה
at this time, whether adverb, conjunction or expletive
#2
נַפְשֵׁ֥נוּ
But now our soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#3
יְבֵשָׁ֖ה
is dried away
dry
#4
אֵ֣ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#5
כֹּ֑ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
בִּלְתִּ֖י
there is nothing at all beside
properly, a failure of, i.e., (used only as a negative particle, usually with a prepositional prefix) not, except, without, unless, besides, because n
#7
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#8
הַמָּ֥ן
this manna
literally a whatness (so to speak), i.e., manna (so called from the question about it)
#9
עֵינֵֽינוּ׃
before our eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 Numbers.

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 Numbers 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

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