1 Corinthians 1:20

Authorized King James Version

Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ποῦ
Where
as adverb of place; at (by implication, to) what locality
#2
σοφός
is the wise
wise (in a most general application)
#3
ποῦ
Where
as adverb of place; at (by implication, to) what locality
#4
γραμματεύς
is the scribe
a professional writer
#5
ποῦ
Where
as adverb of place; at (by implication, to) what locality
#6
συζητητὴς
is the disputer
a disputant, i.e., sophist
#7
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
αἰῶνος
world
properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)
#9
τούτου
of this
of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)
#10
οὐχὶ
not
not indeed
#11
ἐμώρανεν
hath
to become insipid; figuratively, to make (passively, act) as a simpleton
#12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
θεὸς
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#14
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
σοφίαν
the wisdom
wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual)
#16
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
κόσμου
world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#18
τούτου
of this
of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of wisdom reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood wisdom. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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