Numbers 16:11

Authorized King James Version

For which cause both thou and all thy company are gathered together against the LORD: and what is Aaron, that ye murmur against him?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָכֵ֗ן
For which cause
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#2
אַתָּה֙
thou and thee, or (plural) ye and you
#3
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
עֲדָ֣תְךָ֔
both thou and all thy company
a stated assemblage (specifically, a concourse, or generally, a family or crowd)
#5
הַנֹּֽעָדִ֖ים
are gathered together
to fix upon (by agreement or appointment); by implication, to meet (at a stated time), to summon (to trial), to direct (in a certain quarter or positi
#6
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#7
יְהוָ֑ה
against the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
וְאַֽהֲרֹ֣ן
and what is Aaron
aharon, the brother of moses
#9
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#10
ה֔וּא
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
#11
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#12
תַלִּ֖וֹנוּ
that ye murmur
to stop (usually over night); by implication, to stay permanently; hence (in a bad sense) to be obstinate (especially in words, to complain)
#13
עָלָֽיו׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

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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