Numbers 8:3

Authorized King James Version

And Aaron did so; he lighted the lamps thereof over against the candlestick, as the LORD commanded Moses.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וַיַּ֤עַשׂ
did
to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application
#2
כֵּן֙
properly, set upright; hence (figuratively as adjective) just; but usually (as adverb or conjunction) rightly or so (in various applications to manner
#3
אַֽהֲרֹ֔ן
And Aaron
aharon, the brother of moses
#4
אֶל
near, with or among; often in general, to
#5
מוּל֙
thereof over against
properly, abrupt, i.e., a precipice; by implication, the front; used only adverbially (with prepositional prefix) opposite
#6
פְּנֵ֣י
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
הַמְּנוֹרָ֔ה
the candlestick
a chandelier
#8
הֶֽעֱלָ֖ה
so he lighted
to ascend, intransitively (be high) or actively (mount); used in a great variety of senses, primary and secondary, literal and figurative
#9
נֵֽרֹתֶ֑יהָ
the lamps
a lamp (i.e., the burner) or light (literally or figuratively)
#10
כַּֽאֲשֶׁ֛ר
who, which, what, that; also (as an adverb and a conjunction) when, where, how, because, in order that, etc
#11
צִוָּ֥ה
commanded
(intensively) to constitute, enjoin
#12
יְהוָ֖ה
as the LORD
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
#13
אֶת
properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)
#14
מֹשֶֽׁה׃
Moses
mosheh, the israelite lawgiver

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Numbers. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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