Numbers 31:22

Authorized King James Version

Only the gold, and the silver, the brass, the iron, the tin, and the lead,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אַ֥ךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
הַזָּהָ֖ב
Only the gold
gold, figuratively, something gold-colored (i.e., yellow), as oil, a clear sky
#4
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#5
הַכָּ֑סֶף
and the silver
silver (from its pale color); by implication, money
#6
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
הַנְּחֹ֙שֶׁת֙
the brass
copper, hence, something made of that metal, i.e., coin, a fetter; figuratively, base (as compared with gold or silver)
#8
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
הַבַּרְזֶ֔ל
the iron
iron (as cutting); by extension, an iron implement
#10
אֶֽת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
הַבְּדִ֖יל
the tin
alloy (because removed by smelting); by analogy, tin
#12
וְאֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#13
הָֽעֹפָֽרֶת׃
and the lead
lead (from its dusty color)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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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