Numbers 8:11

Authorized King James Version

And Aaron shall offer the Levites before the LORD for an offering of the children of Israel, that they may execute the service of the LORD.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְהֵנִיף֩
shall offer
to quiver (i.e., vibrate up and down, or rock to and fro); used in a great variety of applications (including sprinkling, beckoning, rubbing, bastinad
#2
אַֽהֲרֹ֨ן
And Aaron
aharon, the brother of moses
#3
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#4
הַלְוִיִּ֤ם
the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#5
תְּנוּפָה֙
for an offering
a brandishing (in threat); by implication, tumult; specifically, the official undulation of sacrificial offerings
#6
לִפְנֵ֣י
before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#7
יְהוָֽה׃
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#8
מֵאֵ֖ת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#9
בְּנֵ֣י
of 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
#10
יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל
of Israel
he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity
#11
וְהָי֕וּ
to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)
#12
לַֽעֲבֹ֖ד
that they may execute
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#13
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
עֲבֹדַ֥ת
the service
work of any kind
#15
יְהוָֽה׃
of the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

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

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

Related Resources

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

Study Resources