1 Timothy 6:9

Authorized King James Version

But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.

Word-by-Word Analysis

οἱ

G3588

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

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

βουλόμενοι

G1014

they that will

to "will," i.e., (reflexively) be willing

πλουτεῖν

G4147

be rich

to be (or become) wealthy (literally or figuratively)

ἐμπίπτουσιν

G1706

fall

to fall on, i.e., (literally) to be entrapped by, or (figuratively) be overwhelmed with

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

πειρασμὸν

G3986

temptation

a putting to proof (by experiment (of good), experience (of evil), solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication, adversity

καὶ

G2532

and

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

παγίδα

G3803

a snare

a trap (as fastened by a noose or notch); figuratively, a trick or statagem (temptation)

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#11

ἐπιθυμίας

G1939

lusts

a longing (especially for what is forbidden)

#12

πολλὰς

G4183

into many

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

#13

ἀνοήτους

G453

foolish

unintelligent; by implication, sensual

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#15

βλαβεράς

G983

hurtful

injurious

#16

αἵτινες

G3748

which

which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same

#17

βυθίζουσιν

G1036

drown

to sink; by implication, to drown

#18

τοὺς

G3588

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

#19

ἀνθρώπους

G444

men

man-faced, i.e., a human being

#20

εἰς

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

#21

ὄλεθρον

G3639

destruction

ruin, i.e., death, punishment

#22

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#23

ἀπώλειαν

G684

perdition

ruin or loss (physical, spiritual or eternal)

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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Timothy Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?