Numbers 12:3

Authorized King James Version

(Now the man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.)

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָאִ֥ישׁ
Now the man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#2
מֹשֶׁ֖ה
Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#3
עָנָ֣ו
meek
depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy, especially saintly)
#4
מְאֹ֑ד
was very
properly, vehemence, i.e., (with or without preposition) vehemently; by implication, wholly, speedily, etc. (often with other words as an intensive or
#5
מִכֹּל֙
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#6
הָֽאָדָ֔ם
above all the men
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#7
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#8
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
פְּנֵ֥י
which were upon the face
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#10
הָֽאֲדָמָֽה׃
of the earth
soil (from its general redness)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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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