Numbers 24:18

Authorized King James Version

And Edom shall be a possession, Seir also shall be a possession for his enemies; and Israel shall do valiantly.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהָיָ֨ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#2
אֱד֜וֹם
And Edom
edom, the elder twin-brother of jacob; hence the region (idumaea) occupied by him
#3
יְרֵשָׁ֛ה
also shall be a possession
occupancy
#4
וְהָיָ֧ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#5
יְרֵשָׁ֛ה
also shall be a possession
occupancy
#6
שֵׂעִ֖יר
Seir
seir, a mountain of idumaea and its indigenous occupants, also one in palestine
#7
אֹֽיְבָ֑יו
for his enemies
hating; an adversary
#8
וְיִשְׂרָאֵ֖ל
and Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#9
עֹ֥שֶׂה
shall do
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#10
חָֽיִל׃
valiantly
probably a force, whether of men, means or other resources; an army, wealth, virtue, valor, strength

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Numbers Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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