1 Corinthians 7:16

Authorized King James Version

For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τί
how
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
οἶδας
knowest thou
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
γυναῖκα
O wife
a woman; specially, a wife
#5
εἰ
whether
if, whether, that, etc
#6
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἄνερ
O man
a man (properly as an individual male)
#8
σώσεις
thou shalt save
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)
#9
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#10
τί
how
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#11
οἶδας
knowest thou
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#12
ἄνερ
O man
a man (properly as an individual male)
#13
εἰ
whether
if, whether, that, etc
#14
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
γυναῖκα
O wife
a woman; specially, a wife
#16
σώσεις
thou shalt save
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)

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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