Numbers 32:8

Authorized King James Version

Thus did your fathers, when I sent them from Kadesh-barnea to see the land.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֥ה
properly, like this, i.e., by implication, (of manner) thus (or so); also (of place) here (or hither); or (of time) now
#2
עָשׂ֖וּ
Thus did
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#3
אֲבֹֽתֵיכֶ֑ם
H1
your fathers
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#4
בְּשָׁלְחִ֥י
when I sent
to send away, for, or out (in a great variety of applications)
#5
אֹתָ֛ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
מִקָּדֵ֥שׁ
H0
#7
בַּרְנֵ֖עַ
them from Kadeshbarnea
kadesh-barnea, a place in the desert
#8
לִרְא֥וֹת
to see
to see, literally or figuratively (in numerous applications, direct and implied, transitive, intransitive and causative)
#9
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#10
הָאָֽרֶץ׃
the land
the earth (at large, or partitively a land)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine revelation 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Numbers Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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