Numbers 35:2

Authorized King James Version

Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the Levites of the inheritance of their possession cities to dwell in; and ye shall give also unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round about them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
צַו֮
Command
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#2
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#3
בְּנֵ֣י
the children
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#4
יִשְׂרָאֵל֒
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#5
תִּתְּנ֖וּ
and ye shall give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#6
לַלְוִיִּֽם׃
also unto the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#7
מִֽנַּחֲלַ֛ת
of the inheritance
properly, something inherited, i.e., (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion
#8
אֲחֻזָּתָ֖ם
of their possession
something seized, i.e., a possession (especially of land)
#9
לֶֽעָרִים֙
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#10
לָשָׁ֑בֶת
to dwell in
properly, to sit down (specifically as judge. in ambush, in quiet); by implication, to dwell, to remain; causatively, to settle, to marry
#11
וּמִגְרָ֗שׁ
suburbs
a suburb (i.e., open country whither flocks are driven from pasture); hence, the area around a building, or the margin of the sea
#12
לֶֽעָרִים֙
cities
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#13
סְבִיבֹ֣תֵיהֶ֔ם
round about
(as noun) a circle, neighbour, or environs; but chiefly (as adverb, with or without preposition) around
#14
תִּתְּנ֖וּ
and ye shall give
to give, used with greatest latitude of application (put, make, etc.)
#15
לַלְוִיִּֽם׃
also unto the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi

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

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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