Numbers 9:19

Authorized King James Version

And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the charge of the LORD, and journeyed not.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וּבְהַֽאֲרִ֧יךְ

H748

tarried long

to be (causative, make) long (literally or figuratively)

הֶֽעָנָ֛ן

H6051

And when the cloud

a cloud (as covering the sky), i.e., the nimbus or thunder-cloud

עַל

H5921

above, over, upon, or against (yet always in this last relation with a downward aspect) in a great variety of applications

הַמִּשְׁכָּ֖ן

H4908

upon the tabernacle

a residence (including a shepherd's hut, the lair of animals, figuratively, the grave; also the temple); specifically, the tabernacle (properly, its w

יָמִ֣ים

H3117

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

רַבִּ֑ים

H7227

many

abundant (in quantity, size, age, number, rank, quality)

וְשָֽׁמְר֧וּ

H8104

kept

properly, to hedge about (as with thorns), i.e., guard; generally, to protect, attend to, etc

בְנֵֽי

H1121

then 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

יִשְׂרָאֵ֛ל

H3478

of Israel

he will rule as god; jisral, a symbolical name of jacob; also (typically) of his posterity

#10

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#11

מִשְׁמֶ֥רֶת

H4931

the charge

watch, i.e., the act (custody), or (concretely) the sentry, the post; objectively preservation, or (concretely) safe; figuratively observance, i.e., (

#12

יְהוָ֖ה

H3068

of the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

#13

וְלֹ֥א

H3808

not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles

#14

יִסָּֽעוּ׃

H5265

and journeyed

properly, to pull up, especially the tent-pins, i.e., start on a journey

Analysis

Within the broader context of Numbers, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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Numbers 9:19

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Study Resources