Numbers 31:7

Authorized King James Version

And they warred against the Midianites, as the LORD commanded Moses; and they slew all the males.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַֽיִּצְבְּאוּ֙
And they warred
to mass (an army or servants)
#2
עַל
above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications
#3
מִדְיָ֔ן
against the Midianites
midjan, a son of abraham; also his country and (collectively) his descendants
#4
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#5
צִוָּ֥ה
commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#6
יְהוָ֖ה
as the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#7
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#8
מֹשֶׁ֑ה
Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver
#9
וַיַּֽהַרְג֖וּ
and they slew
to smite with deadly intent
#10
כָּל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#11
זָכָֽר׃
all the males
properly, remembered, i.e., a male (of man or animals, as being the most noteworthy sex)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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