1 Timothy 5:11

Authorized King James Version

But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
νεωτέρας
the younger
"new", i.e., (of persons) youthful, or (of things) fresh; figuratively, regenerate
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
χήρας
widows
a widow (as lacking a husband), literally or figuratively
#4
παραιτοῦ·
refuse
to beg off, i.e., deprecate, decline, shun
#5
ὅταν
when
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#6
γὰρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#7
καταστρηνιάσωσιν
they have begun to wax wanton against
to become voluptuous against
#8
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
Χριστοῦ
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#10
γαμεῖν
marry
to wed (of either sex)
#11
θέλουσιν
they will
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Timothy.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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