Numbers 26:32

Authorized King James Version

And of Shemida, the family of the Shemidaites: and of Hepher, the family of the Hepherites.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּשְׁמִידָ֕ע
And of Shemida
shemida, an israelite
#2
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת
the family
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#3
הַשְּׁמִֽידָעִ֑י
of the Shemidaites
a shemidaite (collectively) or descendants of shemida
#4
וְחֵ֕פֶר
and of Hepher
chepher, a place in palestine
#5
מִשְׁפַּ֖חַת
the family
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#6
הַֽחֶפְרִֽי׃
of the Hepherites
a chephrite (collectively) or descendants of chepher

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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