Numbers 27:10

Authorized King James Version

And if he have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his father's brethren.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
אֵ֥ין
a nonentity; generally used as a negative particle
#3
ל֖וֹ
H0
#4
לַֽאֲחֵ֥י
And if he have no brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#5
וּנְתַתֶּ֥ם
then ye shall give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
נַֽחֲלָת֖וֹ
his inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#8
לַֽאֲחֵ֥י
And if he have no brethren
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
#9
אָבִֽיו׃
H1
unto his father's
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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