Numbers 6:4

Authorized King James Version

All the days of his separation shall he eat nothing that is made of the vine tree, from the kernels even to the husk.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
כֹּ֖ל
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#2
יְמֵ֣י
All the days
a day (as the warm hours), whether literal (from sunrise to sunset, or from one sunset to the next), or figurative (a space of time defined by an asso
#3
נִזְר֑וֹ
of his separation
properly, something set apart, i.e., (abstractly) dedication (of a priet or nazirite); hence (concretely) unshorn locks; also (by implication) a chapl
#4
מִכֹּל֩
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
#5
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#6
יֵֽעָשֶׂ֜ה
nothing that is made
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#7
מִגֶּ֣פֶן
tree
a vine (as twining), especially the grape
#8
הַיַּ֗יִן
of the vine
wine (as fermented); by implication, intoxication
#9
מֵֽחַרְצַנִּ֛ים
from the kernels
a sour grape (as sharp in taste)
#10
וְעַד
as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)
#11
זָ֖ג
even to the husk
the skin of a grape
#12
לֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#13
יֹאכֵֽל׃
shall he eat
to eat (literally or figuratively)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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