Numbers 15:39

Authorized King James Version

And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיָ֣ה
H1961
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
לָכֶם֮
H0
#3
לְצִיצִת֒
H6734
And it shall be unto you for a fringe
a floral or wing-like projection, i.e., a forelock of hair, a tassel
#4
וּרְאִיתֶ֣ם
H7200
that ye may look
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#5
אֹת֗וֹ
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
וּזְכַרְתֶּם֙
H2142
upon it and remember
properly, to mark (so as to be recognized), i.e., to remember; by implication, to mention; to be male
#7
אֶת
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
כָּל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#9
מִצְוֹ֣ת
H4687
all the commandments
a command, whether human or divine (collectively, the law)
#10
יְהוָ֔ה
H3068
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#11
וַֽעֲשִׂיתֶ֖ם
H6213
and do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#12
אֹתָ֑ם
H853
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#13
וְלֹֽא
H3808
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#14
תָת֜וּרוּ
H8446
them and that ye seek
to meander (causatively, guide) about, especially for trade or reconnoitring
#15
אַֽחֲרֵיהֶֽם׃
H310
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#16
לְבַבְכֶם֙
H3824
your own heart
the heart (as the most interior organ)
#17
אַֽחֲרֵיהֶֽם׃
H310
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#18
עֵֽינֵיכֶ֔ם
H5869
and your own eyes
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#19
אֲשֶׁר
H834
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#20
אַתֶּ֥ם
H859
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#21
זֹנִ֖ים
H2181
which ye use to go a whoring
to commit adultery (usually of the female, and less often of simple fornication, rarely of involuntary ravishment); figuratively, to commit idolatry (
#22
אַֽחֲרֵיהֶֽם׃
H310
after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

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