Numbers 14:4

Authorized King James Version

And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיֹּֽאמְר֖וּ
And they said
to say (used with great latitude)
#2
אִ֣ישׁ
one
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)
#3
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#4
אָחִ֑יו
to another
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#5
נִתְּנָ֥ה
Let us make
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
רֹ֖אשׁ
a captain
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#7
וְנָשׁ֥וּבָה
and let us return
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#8
מִצְרָֽיְמָה׃
into Egypt
mitsrajim, i.e., upper and lower egypt

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 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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