Numbers 22:21

Authorized King James Version

And Balaam rose up in the morning, and saddled his ass, and went with the princes of Moab.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיָּ֤קָם
rose up
to rise (in various applications, literal, figurative, intensive and causative)
#2
בִּלְעָם֙
And Balaam
bilam, a place in palestine
#3
בַּבֹּ֔קֶר
in the morning
properly, dawn (as the break of day); generally, morning
#4
וַֽיַּחֲבֹ֖שׁ
and saddled
to wrap firmly (especially a turban, compress, or saddle); figuratively, to stop, to rule
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
אֲתֹנ֑וֹ
his ass
a female donkey (from its docility)
#7
וַיֵּ֖לֶךְ
to walk (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#8
עִם
adverb or preposition, with (i.e., in conjunction with), in varied applications; specifically, equally with; often with prepositional prefix (and then
#9
שָׂרֵ֥י
with the princes
a head person (of any rank or class)
#10
מוֹאָֽב׃
of Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources