Numbers 36:6

Authorized King James Version

This is the thing which the LORD doth command concerning the daughters of Zelophehad, saying, Let them marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
זֶ֣ה
the masculine demonstrative pronoun, this or that
#2
הַדָּבָ֞ר
This is the thing
a word; by implication, a matter (as spoken of) or thing; adverbially, a cause
#3
אֲשֶׁר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#4
צִוָּ֣ה
doth command
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#5
יְהוָ֗ה
which the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#6
לִבְנ֤וֹת
concerning the daughters
a daughter (used in the same wide sense as other terms of relationship, literally and figuratively)
#7
צְלָפְחָד֙
of Zelophehad
tselophchad, an israelite
#8
לֵאמֹ֔ר
saying
to say (used with great latitude)
#9
לַטּ֥וֹב
best
good (as an adjective) in the widest sense; used likewise as a noun, both in the masculine and the feminine, the singular and the plural (good, a good
#10
בְּעֵֽינֵיהֶ֖ם
to whom they think
an eye (literally or figuratively); by analogy, a fountain (as the eye of the landscape)
#11
תִּֽהְיֶ֣ינָה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#12
לְנָשִֽׁים׃
Let them marry
a woman
#13
אַ֗ךְ
a particle of affirmation, surely; hence (by limitation) only
#14
לְמִשְׁפַּ֛חַת
only to the family
a family, i.e., circle of relatives; figuratively, a class (of persons), a species (of animals) or sort (of things); by extension a tribe or people
#15
מַטֵּ֥ה
of the tribe
a branch (as extending); figuratively, a tribe; also a rod, whether for chastising (figuratively, correction), ruling (a sceptre), throwing (a lance),
#16
אֲבִיהֶ֖ם
H1
of their father
father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application
#17
תִּֽהְיֶ֥ינָה
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#18
לְנָשִֽׁים׃
Let them marry
a woman

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Study Resources