Numbers 31:20

Authorized King James Version

And purify all your raiment, and all that is made of skins, and all work of goats' hair, and all things made of wood.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְכָל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
בֶּ֧גֶד
H899
all your raiment
a covering, i.e., clothing
#3
וְכָל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#4
כְּלִי
H3627
and all that is made
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
#5
ע֛וֹר
H5785
of skins
skin (as naked); by implication, hide, leather
#6
וְכָל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#7
מַֽעֲשֵׂ֥ה
H4639
and all work
an action (good or bad); generally, a transaction; abstractly, activity; by implication, a product (specifically, a poem) or (generally) property
#8
עִזִּ֖ים
H5795
of goats
a she-goat (as strong), but masculine in plural (which also is used elliptically for goat's hair)
#9
וְכָל
H3605
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
כְּלִי
H3627
and all that is made
something prepared, i.e., any apparatus (as an implement, utensil, dress, vessel or weapon)
#11
עֵ֑ץ
H6086
of wood
a tree (from its firmness); hence, wood (plural sticks)
#12
תִּתְחַטָּֽאוּ׃
H2398
And purify
properly, to miss; hence (figuratively and generally) to sin; by inference, to forfeit, lack, expiate, repent, (causatively) lead astray, condemn

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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