1 Corinthians 13:12

Authorized King James Version

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.

Word-by-Word Analysis

βλέπομεν

G991

we see

to look at (literally or figuratively)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἄρτι

G737

now

just now

δι'

G1223

through

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

ἐσόπτρου

G2072

a glass

a mirror (for looking into)

ἐν

G1722

darkly

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

αἰνίγματι

G135

an obscure saying ("enigma"), i.e., (abstractly) obscureness

τότε

G5119

then

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#10

πρόσωπον·

G4383

face

the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person

#11

πρὸς

G4314

a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,

#12

πρόσωπον·

G4383

face

the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person

#13

ἄρτι

G737

now

just now

#14

γινώσκω

G1097

I know

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

#15

ἐκ

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#16

μέρους

G3313

part

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

#17

τότε

G5119

then

the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)

#18

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#19

ἐπεγνώσθην

G1921

I am known

to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge

#20

καθὼς

G2531

even as

just (or inasmuch) as, that

#21

καὶ

G2532

also

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#22

ἐπεγνώσθην

G1921

I am known

to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, 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 1 Corinthians 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
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 revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?

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