Numbers 11:7

Authorized King James Version

And the manna was as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of bdellium.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַמָּ֕ן
And the manna
literally a whatness (so to speak), i.e., manna (so called from the question about it)
#2
כִּזְרַע
seed
seed; figuratively, fruit, plant, sowing-time, posterity
#3
גַּ֖ד
was as coriander
coriander seed (from its furrows)
#4
ה֑וּא
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
#5
כְּעֵ֥ין
and the colour
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#6
כְּעֵ֥ין
and the colour
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#7
הַבְּדֹֽלַח׃
of bdellium
something in pieces, i.e., bdellium, a (fragrant) gum (perhaps amber); others a pearl

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources