Numbers 15:27

Authorized King James Version

And if any soul sin through ignorance, then he shall bring a she goat of the first year for a sin offering.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
נֶ֥פֶשׁ
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
אַחַ֖ת
And if any
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#4
תֶּֽחֱטָ֣א
sin
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn
#5
בִשְׁגָגָ֑ה
through ignorance
a mistake or inadvertent transgression
#6
וְהִקְרִ֛יבָה
then he shall bring
to approach (causatively, bring near) for whatever purpose
#7
עֵ֥ז
a she goat
a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)
#8
בַּת
of the first
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#9
שְׁנָתָ֖הּ
year
a year (as a revolution of time)
#10
לְחַטָּֽאת׃
for a sin offering
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

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

Study Resources