1 Peter 3:4

Authorized King James Version

But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλ'
But
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
κρυπτὸς
let it be the hidden
concealed, i.e., private
#4
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
καρδίας
of the heart
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#6
ἄνθρωπος
man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἀφθάρτῳ
that which is not corruptible
undecaying (in essence or continuance)
#10
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
πρᾳέος
even the ornament of a meek
mild, i.e., (by implication) humble
#12
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
ἡσυχίου
quiet
properly, keeping one's seat (sedentary), i.e., (by implication) still (undisturbed, undisturbing)
#14
πνεύματος
spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#15
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#16
ἐστιν
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#17
ἐνώπιον
in the sight
in the face of (literally or figuratively)
#18
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
θεοῦ
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#20
πολυτελές
of great price
extremely expensive

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Peter, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Peter.

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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