Numbers 29:5

Authorized King James Version

And one kid of the goats for a sin offering, to make an atonement for you:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּשְׂעִיר
kid
shaggy; as noun, a he-goat; by analogy, a faun
#2
עִזִּ֥ים
of the goats
a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)
#3
אֶחָ֖ד
And one
properly, united, i.e., one; or (as an ordinal) first
#4
חַטָּ֑את
for a sin offering
an offence (sometimes habitual sinfulness), and its penalty, occasion, sacrifice, or expiation; also (concretely) an offender
#5
לְכַפֵּ֖ר
to make an atonement
to cover (specifically with bitumen)
#6
עֲלֵיכֶֽם׃
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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