Numbers 19:11

Authorized King James Version

He that toucheth the dead body of any man shall be unclean seven days.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
הַנֹּגֵ֥עַ
He that toucheth
properly, to touch, i.e., lay the hand upon (for any purpose; euphemistically, to lie with a woman); by implication, to reach (figuratively, to arrive
#2
בְּמֵ֖ת
the dead
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#3
לְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
נֶ֣פֶשׁ
body
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#5
אָדָ֑ם
of any man
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#6
וְטָמֵ֖א
shall be unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#7
שִׁבְעַ֥ת
seven
seven (as the sacred full one); also (adverbially) seven times; by implication, a week; by extension, an indefinite number
#8
יָמִֽים׃
days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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