1 Peter 1:18

Authorized King James Version

Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰδότες
Forasmuch as ye know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#2
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#3
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#4
φθαρτοῖς
with corruptible things
decayed, i.e., (by implication) perishable
#5
ἀργυρίῳ
as silver
silvery, i.e., (by implication) cash; specially, a silverling (i.e., drachma or shekel)
#6
and
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#7
χρυσίῳ
gold
a golden article, i.e., gold plating, ornament, or coin
#8
ἐλυτρώθητε
redeemed
to ransom (literally or figuratively)
#9
ἐκ
from
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#10
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ματαίας
vain
empty, i.e., (literally) profitless, or (specially), an idol
#12
ὑμῶν
your
of (from or concerning) you
#13
ἀναστροφῆς
conversation
behavior
#14
πατροπαραδότου
received by tradition from your fathers
traditionary

Cross References

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Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by establishing foundational concepts crucial to 1 Peter's theological argument.

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 Peter 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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