Numbers 2:14

Authorized King James Version

Then the tribe of Gad: and the captain of the sons of Gad shall be Eliasaph the son of Reuel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְמַטֵּ֖ה
Then the tribe
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#2
גָ֔ד
of Gad
gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet
#3
וְנָשִׂיא֙
and the captain
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
#4
בֶּן
of the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#5
גָ֔ד
of Gad
gad, a son of jacob, including his tribe and its territory; also a prophet
#6
אֶלְיָסָ֖ף
shall be Eliasaph
eljasaph, the name of two israelites
#7
בֶּן
of the sons
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#8
רְעוּאֵֽל׃
of Reuel
reuel, the name of moses' father-in-law, also of an edomite and an israelite

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

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