Numbers 3:42

Authorized King James Version

And Moses numbered, as the LORD commanded him, all the firstborn among the children of Israel.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּפְקֹ֣ד
numbered
to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc
#2
מֹשֶׁ֔ה
And Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#3
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
צִוָּ֥ה
commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#5
יְהוָ֖ה
as the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
אֹת֑וֹ
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#9
בְּכ֖וֹר
him all the firstborn
first-born; hence, chief
#10
בִּבְנֵ֥י
among the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#11
יִשְׂרָאֵֽל׃
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Numbers Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources