1 Timothy 5:14

Authorized King James Version

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
βούλομαι
I will
to "will," i.e., (reflexively) be willing
#2
οὖν
therefore
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
νεωτέρας
that the younger women
"new", i.e., (of persons) youthful, or (of things) fresh; figuratively, regenerate
#4
γαμεῖν
marry
to wed (of either sex)
#5
τεκνογονεῖν
bear children
to be a child-bearer, i.e., parent (mother)
#6
οἰκοδεσποτεῖν
guide the house
to be the head of (i.e., rule) a family
#7
μηδεμίαν
none
not even one (man, woman, thing)
#8
ἀφορμὴν
occasion
a starting-point, i.e., (figuratively) an opportunity
#9
διδόναι
give
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#10
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ἀντικειμένῳ
to the adversary
to lie opposite, i.e., be adverse (figuratively, repugnant) to
#12
λοιδορίας
speak reproachfully
slander or vituperation
#13
χάριν·
to
through favor of, i.e., on account of

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Timothy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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