Numbers 5:12

Authorized King James Version

Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man's wife go aside, and commit a trespass against him,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
דַּבֵּר֙
Speak
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
#2
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#3
בְּנֵ֣י
unto 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
יִשְׂרָאֵ֔ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#5
וְאָֽמַרְתָּ֖
and say
to say (used with great latitude)
#6
אֲלֵהֶ֑ם
near, with or among; often in general, to
#7
אִישׁ֙
man's
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#8
אִישׁ֙
man's
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#9
כִּֽי
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
#10
תִשְׂטֶ֣ה
go aside
to deviate from duty
#11
אִשְׁתּ֔וֹ
wife
a woman
#12
וּמָֽעֲלָ֥ה
and commit
properly, to cover up; used only figuratively, to act covertly, i.e., treacherously
#13
ב֖וֹ
H0
#14
מָֽעַל׃
a trespass
treachery, i.e., sin

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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