Numbers 2:18

Authorized King James Version

On the west side shall be the standard of the camp of Ephraim according to their armies: and the captain of the sons of Ephraim shall be Elishama the son of Ammihud.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דֶּ֣גֶל
shall be the standard
a flag
#2
מַֽחֲנֵ֥ה
of the camp
an encampment (of travellers or troops); hence, an army, whether literal (of soldiers) or figurative (of dancers, angels, cattle, locusts, stars; or e
#3
אֶפְרַ֔יִם
of Ephraim
ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
#4
לְצִבְאֹתָ֖ם
according to their armies
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
#5
יָ֑מָּה
On the west side
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#6
וְנָשִׂיא֙
and the captain
properly, an exalted one, i.e., a king or sheik; also a rising mist
#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
אֶפְרַ֔יִם
of Ephraim
ephrajim, a son of joseph; also the tribe descended from him, and its territory
#9
אֱלִֽישָׁמָ֖ע
shall be Elishama
elishama, the name of seven israelites
#10
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
#11
עַמִּיהֽוּד׃
of Ammihud
ammihud, the name of three israelites

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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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