1 Corinthians 14:27

Authorized King James Version

If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἴτε
If
if too
#2
γλώσσῃ
in an unknown tongue
the tongue; by implication, a language (specially, one naturally unacquired)
#3
τις
any man
some or any person or object
#4
λαλεῖ
speak
to talk, i.e., utter words
#5
κατὰ
let it be by
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#6
δύο
two
"two"
#7
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#8
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
πλεῖστον
at the most
the largest number or very large
#10
τρεῖς
by three
"three"
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
ἀνὰ
that by
properly, up; but (by extension) used (distributively) severally, or (locally) at (etc.)
#13
μέρος
course
a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)
#14
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#15
εἷς
one
one
#16
διερμηνευέτω·
interpret
to explain thoroughly, by implication, to translate

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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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