Numbers 31:2

Authorized King James Version

Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites: afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
נְקֹ֗ם
Avenge
to grudge, i.e., avenge or punish
#2
נִקְמַת֙
avengement, whether the act of the passion
#3
בְּנֵ֣י
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
#4
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#5
מֵאֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
הַמִּדְיָנִ֑ים
of the Midianites
a midjanite or descendant (native) of midjan
#7
אַחַ֖ר
afterward
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#8
תֵּֽאָסֵ֥ף
shalt thou be gathered
to gather for any purpose; hence, to receive, take away, i.e., remove (destroy, leave behind, put up, restore, etc.)
#9
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#10
עַמֶּֽיךָ׃
unto thy people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood covenant community. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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