Numbers 22:36

Authorized King James Version

And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which is in the border of Arnon, which is in the utmost coast.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּשְׁמַ֥ע
heard
to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
#2
בָּלָ֖ק
And when Balak
balak, a moabitish king
#3
כִּ֣י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#4
בָ֣א
was come
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#5
בִלְעָ֑ם
that Balaam
bilam, a place in palestine
#6
וַיֵּצֵ֨א
he went out
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#7
לִקְרָאת֜וֹ
to meet
an encountering, accidental, friendly or hostile (also adverbially, opposite)
#8
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#9
עִ֣יר
him unto a city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
מוֹאָ֗ב
of Moab
moab, an incestuous son of lot; also his territory and descendants
#11
אֲשֶׁר֙
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#12
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#13
הַגְּבֽוּל׃
coast
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
#14
אַרְנֹ֔ן
of Arnon
the arnon, a river east of the jordan, also its territory
#15
אֲשֶׁ֖ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#16
בִּקְצֵ֥ה
which is in the utmost
an extremity
#17
הַגְּבֽוּל׃
coast
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources