Numbers 31:46

Authorized King James Version

And sixteen thousand persons;)

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְנֶ֣פֶשׁ
persons
properly, a breathing creature, i.e., animal of (abstractly) vitality; used very widely in a literal, accommodated or figurative sense (bodily or ment
#2
אָדָ֔ם
ruddy i.e., a human being (an individual or the species, mankind, etc.)
#3
שִׁשָּׁ֥ה
And sixteen
six (as an overplus beyond five or the fingers of the hand); as ordinal, sixth
#4
עָשָׂ֖ר
ten (only in combination), i.e., -teen; also (ordinal) -teenth
#5
אָֽלֶף׃
thousand
hence (the ox's head being the first letter of the alphabet, and this eventually used as a numeral) a thousand

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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