Numbers 33:11

Authorized King James Version

And they removed from the Red sea, and encamped in the wilderness of Sin.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיִּסְע֖וּ
And they removed
properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey
#2
מִיַּם
sea
a sea (as breaking in noisy surf) or large body of water; specifically (with the article), the mediterranean sea; sometimes a large river, or an artif
#3
ס֑וּף
from the Red
a reed, especially the papyrus
#4
וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ
and encamped
properly, to incline; by implication, to decline (of the slanting rays of evening); specifically, to pitch a tent; generally to encamp (for abode or s
#5
בְּמִדְבַּר
in the wilderness
a pasture (i.e., open field, whither cattle are driven); by implication, a desert
#6
סִֽין׃
of Sin
sin the name of an egyptian town and (probably) desert adjoining

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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