1 Corinthians 7:29

Authorized King James Version

But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τοῦτο
this
that thing
#2
δέ
But
but, and, etc
#3
φημι
I say
to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say
#4
ἀδελφοί
G80
brethren
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#5
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
καιρὸς
the time
an occasion, i.e., set or proper time
#7
συνεσταλμένος
is short
to send (draw) together, i.e., enwrap (enshroud a corpse for burial), contract (an interval)
#8
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
λοιπόν
something remaining (adverbially)
#10
ἐστιν
it remaineth
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#11
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#12
καὶ
both
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἔχοντες
they had
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#15
γυναῖκας
wives
a woman; specially, a wife
#16
ὡς
as though
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#17
μὴ
none
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#18
ἔχοντες
they had
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#19
ὦσιν
be
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be

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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