1 Corinthians 8:2

Authorized King James Version

And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
if, whether, that, etc
#2
δέ
And
but, and, etc
#3
τι
any thing
some or any person or object
#4
δοκεῖ
think
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
#5
εἰδέναι
that he knoweth
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#6
τι
any thing
some or any person or object
#7
οὐδέπω
yet
not even yet
#8
οὐδὲν
nothing
not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing
#9
γνῶναι·
he knoweth
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#10
καθὼς
as
just (or inasmuch) as, that
#11
δεῖ
he ought
also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)
#12
γνῶναι·
he knoweth
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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