Numbers 19:8

Authorized King James Version

And he that burneth her shall wash his clothes in water, and bathe his flesh in water, and shall be unclean until the even.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהַשֹּׂרֵ֣ף
And he that burneth
to be (causatively, set) on fire
#2
אֹתָ֔הּ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
יְכַבֵּ֤ס
her shall wash
to trample; hence, to wash (properly, by stamping with the feet), whether literal (including the fulling process) or figurative
#4
בְּגָדָיו֙
his clothes
a covering, i.e., clothing
#5
בַּמָּ֑יִם
in water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#6
וְרָחַ֥ץ
and bathe
to lave (the whole or a part of a thing)
#7
בְּשָׂר֖וֹ
his flesh
flesh (from its freshness); by extension, body, person; also (by euphemistically) the pudenda of a man
#8
בַּמָּ֑יִם
in water
water; figuratively, juice; by euphemism, urine, semen
#9
וְטָמֵ֖א
and shall be unclean
to be foul, especially in a ceremial or moral sense (contaminated)
#10
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#11
הָעָֽרֶב׃
until the even
dusk

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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