Numbers 19:15

Authorized King James Version

And every open vessel, which hath no covering bound upon it, is unclean.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכֹל֙
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
כְּלִ֣י
vessel
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
#3
פָת֔וּחַ
And every open
to open wide (literally or figuratively); specifically, to loosen, begin, plough, carve
#4
אֲשֶׁ֛ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#5
אֵין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#6
צָמִ֥יד
which hath no covering
generally, a lid
#7
פָּתִ֖יל
bound
twine
#8
עָלָ֑יו
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
טָמֵ֖א
upon it is unclean
foul in a religious sense
#10
הֽוּא׃
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

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Numbers Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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