1 Timothy 5:13

Authorized King James Version

And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἅμα

G260

withal

properly, at the "same" time, but freely used as a preposition or adverb denoting close association

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

καὶ

G2532

also

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀργαὶ

G692

idle

inactive, i.e., unemployed; (by implication) lazy, useless

μανθάνουσιν

G3129

they learn

to learn (in any way)

περιερχόμεναι

G4022

wandering about

to come all around, i.e., stroll, vacillate, veer

τὰ

G3588

things which

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οἰκίας

G3614

from house to house

properly, residence (abstractly), but usually (concretely) an abode (literally or figuratively); by implication, a family (especially domestics)

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#10

μόνον

G3440

only

merely

#11

δὲ

G1161

And

but, and, etc

#12

ἀργαὶ

G692

idle

inactive, i.e., unemployed; (by implication) lazy, useless

#13

ἀλλὰ

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

#14

καὶ

G2532

also

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

φλύαροι

G5397

tattlers

a garrulous person, i.e., prater

#16

καὶ

G2532

also

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#17

περίεργοι

G4021

busybodies

working all around, i.e., officious (meddlesome, neuter plural magic)

#18

λαλοῦσαι

G2980

speaking

to talk, i.e., utter words

#19

τὰ

G3588

things which

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#20

μὴ

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

#21

δέοντα

G1163

they ought

also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)

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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?