Numbers 8:15

Authorized King James Version

And after that shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation: and thou shalt cleanse them, and offer them for an offering.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְאַֽחֲרֵי
And after
properly, the hind part; generally used as an adverb or conjunction, after (in various senses)
#2
כֵן֙
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#3
יָבֹ֣אוּ
go in
to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)
#4
הַלְוִיִּ֔ם
that shall the Levites
a levite or descendant of levi
#5
לַֽעֲבֹ֖ד
to do the service
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#6
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#7
אֹ֣הֶל
of the tabernacle
a tent (as clearly conspicuous from a distance)
#8
מוֹעֵ֑ד
of the congregation
properly, an appointment, i.e., a fixed time or season; specifically, a festival; conventionally a year; by implication, an assembly (as convened for
#9
וְטִֽהַרְתָּ֣
and thou shalt cleanse
to be pure (physical sound, clear, unadulterated; levitically, uncontaminated; morally, innocent or holy)
#10
אֹתָ֔ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#11
וְהֵֽנַפְתָּ֥
them and 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
#12
אֹתָ֖ם
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#13
תְּנוּפָֽה׃
them for an offering
a brandishing (in threat); by implication, tumult; specifically, the official undulation of sacrificial offerings

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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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