2 Corinthians 11:16

Authorized King James Version

I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Πάλιν
again
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
#2
λέγω
I say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#3
μήγε
no
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#4
τι
a
some or any person or object
#5
με
me
me
#6
δόξῃ
Let
compare the base of g1166) of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem (truthfully or uncertainly)
#7
ἄφρονα
a fool
properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving
#8
εἶναι·
me
to exist
#9
εἰ
if, whether, that, etc
#10
δὲ
but, and, etc
#11
μήγε
no
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#12
κἂν
yet
and (or even) if
#13
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#14
ἄφρονα
a fool
properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving
#15
δέξασθέ
receive
to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)
#16
με
me
me
#17
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#18
μικρόν
little
a small space of time or degree
#19
τι
a
some or any person or object
#20
κἀγὼ
I
so also the dative case ????? <pronunciation strongs="kam-oy'"/>, and accusative case ???? <pronunciation strongs="kam-eh'"/> and (or also, even, etc.
#21
καυχήσωμαι
may boast myself
to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense)

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

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 2 Corinthians 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