Numbers 30:10

Authorized King James Version

And if she vowed in her husband's house, or bound her soul by a bond with an oath;

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
בֵּ֥ית
house
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
#3
אִישָׁ֖הּ
in her husband's
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)
#4
נָדָ֑רָה
And if she vowed
to promise (pos., to do or give something to god)
#5
אֽוֹ
desire (and so probably in proverbs 31:4); hence (by way of alternative) or, also if
#6
אָסְרָ֥ה
or bound
to yoke or hitch; by analogy, to fasten in any sense, to join battle
#7
אִסָּ֛ר
by a bond
an obligation or vow (of abstinence)
#8
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#9
נַפְשָׁ֖הּ
her soul
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#10
בִּשְׁבֻעָֽה׃
with an oath
properly, something sworn, i.e., an oath

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights covenant through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 covenant 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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