Numbers 17:3

Authorized King James Version

And thou shalt write Aaron's name upon the rod of Levi: for one rod shall be for the head of the house of their fathers.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאֵת֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#2
שֵׁ֣ם
name
an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character
#3
אַֽהֲרֹ֔ן
Aaron's
aharon, the brother of moses
#4
תִּכְתֹּ֖ב
And thou shalt write
to grave, by implication, to write (describe, inscribe, prescribe, subscribe)
#5
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#6
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#7
לֵוִ֑י
of Levi
levi, a son of jacob
#8
כִּ֚י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#9
מַטֶּ֣ה
rod
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#10
אֶחָ֔ד
for one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#11
לְרֹ֖אשׁ
shall be for the head
the head (as most easily shaken), whether literal or figurative (in many applications, of place, time, rank, itc.)
#12
בֵּ֥ית
of the house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#13
אֲבוֹתָֽם׃
H1
of their fathers
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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