Numbers 21:27

Authorized King James Version

Wherefore they that speak in proverbs say, Come into Heshbon, let the city of Sihon be built and prepared:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#2
כֵּ֛ן
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#3
יֹֽאמְר֥וּ
say
to say (used with great latitude)
#4
הַמֹּֽשְׁלִ֖ים
Wherefore they that speak in proverbs
to liken, i.e., (transitively) to use figurative language (an allegory, adage, song or the like); intransitively, to resemble
#5
בֹּ֣אוּ
Come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#6
חֶשְׁבּ֑וֹן
into Heshbon
cheshbon, a place east of the jordan
#7
תִּבָּנֶ֥ה
be built
to build (literally and figuratively)
#8
וְתִכּוֹנֵ֖ן
and prepared
properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,
#9
עִ֥יר
let the city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
סִיחֽוֹן׃
of Sihon
sichon, an amoritish king

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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