Numbers 3:49

Authorized King James Version

And Moses took the redemption money of them that were over and above them that were redeemed by the Levites:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּקַּ֣ח
took
to take (in the widest variety of applications)
#2
מֹשֶׁ֔ה
And Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#3
אֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
כֶּ֣סֶף
money
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#5
הַפִּדְי֑וֹם
the redemption
a ransom
#6
מֵאֵת֙
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
הָעֹ֣דְפִ֔ים
of them that were over
to be (causatively have) redundant
#8
עַ֖ל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
פְּדוּיֵ֥י
and above them that were redeemed
as abstractly (in plural masculine) a ransom
#10
הַלְוִיִּֽם׃
by the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of redemption connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about redemption, 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

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 redemption in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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