Numbers 24:22

Authorized King James Version

Nevertheless the Kenite shall be wasted, until Asshur shall carry thee away captive.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֥י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
אִם
shall
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#3
יִֽהְיֶ֖ה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#4
לְבָ֣עֵֽר
be wasted
to be(-come) brutish
#5
קָ֑יִן
Nevertheless the Kenite
kajin, the name of the first child
#6
עַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#7
מָ֖ה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#8
אַשּׁ֥וּר
until Asshur
ashshur, the second son of shem; also his descendants and the country occupied by them (i.e., assyria), its region and its empire
#9
תִּשְׁבֶּֽךָּ׃
shall carry thee away captive
to transport into captivity

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

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