2 Corinthians 1:22

Authorized King James Version

Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ταῖς
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#3
σφραγισάμενος
hath
to stamp (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation (literally or figuratively); by implication, to keep secret, to attest
#4
ἡμᾶς
us
us
#5
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
δοὺς
given
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#7
ταῖς
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἀῤῥαβῶνα
the earnest
a pledge, i.e., part of the purchase-money or property given in advance as security for the rest
#9
ταῖς
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
πνεύματος
of the Spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#11
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
ταῖς
Who
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
καρδίαις
hearts
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#14
ἡμῶν
our
of (or from) us

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. 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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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