The indirect object is fronted in the speech formula five times in the OT,
all in the Pentateuch. They are: Exod 30:31; Lev 9:3; 24:15; Num 18:26;
27:8. Is this a meaningful variation?
In Exod 30:31 it seems to be a contrast. God is giving Moses instructions
regarding Aaron and his sons, and then "To the Israelites, on the other
hand, you shall say ..." However, the other four occurrences of this
device do not seem to involve contrast. Any ideas?
Dave Stabnow
fronted IO in speech formula,
David Stabnow, 12/12/2000