Numbers 20:4

Authorized King James Version

And why have ye brought up the congregation of the LORD into this wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלָמָ֤ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#2
הֲבֵאתֶם֙
And why have ye brought up
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
קְהַ֣ל
the congregation
assemblage (usually concretely)
#5
יְהוָ֔ה
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
הַמִּדְבָּ֖ר
into this wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#8
הַזֶּ֑ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#9
לָמ֣וּת
should die
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
#10
שָׁ֔ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#11
אֲנַ֖חְנוּ
we
#12
וּבְעִירֵֽנוּ׃
that we and our cattle
cattle

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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