Numbers 35:26

Authorized King James Version

But if the slayer shall at any time come without the border of the city of his refuge, whither he was fled;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאִם
used very widely as demonstrative, lo!; interrogative, whether?; or conditional, if, although; also oh that!, when; hence, as a negative, not
#2
יֵצֵ֖א
come
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#3
יֵצֵ֖א
come
to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively, direct and proxim
#4
הָֽרֹצֵ֑חַ
But if the slayer
properly, to dash in pieces, i.e., kill (a human being), especially to murder
#5
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#6
גְּבוּל֙
without the border
properly, a cord (as twisted), i.e., (by implication) a boundary; by extension the territory inclosed
#7
עִ֣יר
of the city
a city (a place guarded by waking or a watch) in the widest sense (even of a mere encampment or post)
#8
מִקְלָט֔וֹ
of his refuge
an asylum (as a receptacle)
#9
אֲשֶׁ֥ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#10
יָנ֖וּס
whither he was fled
to flit, i.e., vanish away (subside, escape; causatively, chase, impel, deliver)
#11
שָֽׁמָּה׃
there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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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