1 Timothy 1:7

Authorized King James Version

Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
θέλοντες
G2309
Desiring
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#2
εἶναι
G1511
to be
to exist
#3
νομοδιδάσκαλοι
G3547
teachers of the law
an expounder of the (jewish) law, i.e., a rabbi
#4
μὴ
G3361
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#5
νοοῦντες
G3539
understanding
to exercise the mind (observe), i.e., (figuratively) to comprehend, heed
#6
μήτε
G3383
neither
not too, i.e., (in continued negation) neither or nor; also, not even
#7
ἃ
G3739
what
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#8
λέγουσιν
G3004
they say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#9
μήτε
G3383
neither
not too, i.e., (in continued negation) neither or nor; also, not even
#10
περὶ
G4012
whereof
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
#11
τίνων
G5101
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#12
διαβεβαιοῦνται
G1226
they affirm
to confirm thoroughly (by words), i.e., asseverate

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Timothy, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Timothy's theological argument.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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