Numbers 32:26

Authorized King James Version

Our little ones, our wives, our flocks, and all our cattle, shall be there in the cities of Gilead:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
טַפֵּ֣נוּ
Our little ones
a family (mostly used collectively in the singular)
#2
נָשֵׁ֔ינוּ
our wives
a woman
#3
מִקְנֵ֖נוּ
our flocks
something bought, i.e., property, but only live stock; abstractly, acquisition
#4
וְכָל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
בְּהֶמְתֵּ֑נוּ
and all our cattle
properly, a dumb beast; especially any large quadruped or animal (often collective)
#6
יִֽהְיוּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#7
שָׁ֖ם
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence
#8
בְּעָרֵ֥י
shall be there in the cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#9
הַגִּלְעָֽד׃
of Gilead
gilad, a region east of the jordan; also the name of three israelites

Analysis

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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