1 Corinthians 14:15

Authorized King James Version

What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τί
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
οὖν
then
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
ἐστιν
is it
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#4
προσεύξομαι
I will pray
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#5
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
πνεύματι
with the spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#7
προσεύξομαι
I will pray
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#8
δὲ
and
but, and, etc
#9
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
νοΐ
with the understanding
the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning
#12
ψαλῶ
I will sing
to twitch or twang, i.e., to play on a stringed instrument (celebrate the divine worship with music and accompanying odes)
#13
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
πνεύματι
with the spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#15
ψαλῶ
I will sing
to twitch or twang, i.e., to play on a stringed instrument (celebrate the divine worship with music and accompanying odes)
#16
δὲ
and
but, and, etc
#17
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#18
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
νοΐ
with the understanding
the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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