Numbers 8:25

Authorized King James Version

And from the age of fifty years they shall cease waiting upon the service thereof, and shall serve no more:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וּמִבֶּן֙
And from the age
a son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or
#2
חֲמִשִּׁ֣ים
of fifty
fifty
#3
שָׁנָ֔ה
years
a year (as a revolution of time)
#4
יָשׁ֖וּב
they shall cease
to turn back (hence, away) transitively or intransitively, literally or figuratively (not necessarily with the idea of return to the starting point);
#5
מִצְּבָ֣א
waiting
a mass of persons (or figuratively, things), especially reg. organized for war (an army); by implication, a campaign, literally or figuratively (speci
#6
הָֽעֲבֹדָ֑ה
upon the service
work of any kind
#7
וְלֹ֥א
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
#8
יַֽעֲבֹ֖ד
thereof and shall serve
to work (in any sense); by implication, to serve, till, (causatively) enslave, etc
#9
עֽוֹד׃
properly, iteration or continuance; used only adverbially (with or without preposition), again, repeatedly, still, more

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Numbers Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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