Numbers 32:16

Authorized King James Version

And they came near unto him, and said, We will build sheepfolds here for our cattle, and cities for our little ones:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּגְּשׁ֤וּ
And they came near
to be or come (causatively, bring) near (for any purpose); euphemistically, to lie with a woman; as an enemy, to attack; religious to worship; causati
#2
אֵלָיו֙
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
וַ֣יֹּאמְר֔וּ
unto him and said
to say (used with great latitude)
#4
גִּדְרֹ֥ת
sheepfolds
enclosure (especially for flocks)
#5
צֹ֛אן
a collective name for a flock (of sheep or goats); also figuratively (of men)
#6
נִבְנֶ֥ה
We will build
to build (literally and figuratively)
#7
לְמִקְנֵ֖נוּ
here for our cattle
something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition
#8
פֹּ֑ה
this place (french ici), i.e., here or hence
#9
וְעָרִ֖ים
and cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
לְטַפֵּֽנוּ׃
for our little ones
a family (mostly used collectively in the singular)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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