Numbers 32:15

Authorized King James Version

For if ye turn away from after him, he will yet again leave them in the wilderness; and ye shall destroy all this people.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כִּ֤י
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#2
תְשׁוּבֻן֙
For if ye turn away
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#3
מֵֽאַחֲרָ֔יו
from after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#4
וְיָסַ֣ף
him he will yet again
to add or augment (often adverbial, to continue to do a thing)
#5
ע֔וֹד
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more
#6
לְהַנִּיח֖וֹ
leave
to deposit; by implication, to allow to stay
#7
בַּמִּדְבָּ֑ר
them in the wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#8
וְשִֽׁחַתֶּ֖ם
and ye shall destroy
to decay, i.e., (causatively) ruin (literally or figuratively)
#9
לְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#10
הָעָ֥ם
all this people
a people (as a congregated unit); specifically, a tribe (as those of israel); hence (collectively) troops or attendants; figuratively, a flock
#11
הַזֶּֽה׃
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of covenant community 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 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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