Numbers 26:54

Authorized King James Version

To many thou shalt give the more inheritance, and to few thou shalt give the less inheritance: to every one shall his inheritance be given according to those that were numbered of him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
לָרַ֗ב
To many
abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)
#2
תַּרְבֶּה֙
thou shalt give the more
to increase (in whatever respect)
#3
נַֽחֲלָתֽוֹ׃
inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#4
וְלַמְעַ֕ט
and to few
a little or few (often adverbial or comparative)
#5
תַּמְעִ֖יט
thou shalt give the less
properly, to pare off, i.e., lessen; intransitively, to be (or causatively, to make) small or few (or figuratively, ineffective)
#6
נַֽחֲלָתֽוֹ׃
inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#7
אִ֚ישׁ
to every one
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#8
לְפִ֣י
according
the mouth (as the means of blowing), whether literal or figurative (particularly speech); specifically edge, portion or side; adverbially (with prepos
#9
פְקֻדָ֔יו
to those that were numbered
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
#10
יֻתַּ֖ן
be given
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#11
נַֽחֲלָתֽוֹ׃
inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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