1 Corinthians 6:16

Authorized King James Version

What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
What
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#2
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#3
οἴδατε
know ye
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#4
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#5
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
κολλώμενος
he which is joined
to glue, i.e., (passively or reflexively) to stick (figuratively)
#7
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
πόρνῃ
to an harlot
a strumpet; figuratively, an idolater
#9
μίαν
one
one
#10
σῶμά
body
the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively
#11
ἐστιν;
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#12
Ἔσονται
shall be
will be
#13
γάρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#14
φησίν
saith he
to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say
#15
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
δύο
two
"two"
#17
εἰς
one
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#18
σάρκα
flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#19
μίαν
one
one

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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