2 Corinthians 12:6

Authorized King James Version

For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἐὰν

G1437

though

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

θελήσω

G2309

I would desire

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

καυχήσασθαι

G2744

to glory

to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense)

οὐκ

G3756

not

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

ἔσομαι

G2071

I shall

will be

ἄφρων

G878

a fool

properly, mindless, i.e., stupid, (by implication) ignorant, (specially) egotistic, (practically) rash, or (morally) unbelieving

ἀλήθειαν

G225

the truth

truth

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#10

ἐρῶ·

G2046

I will say

an alternate for g2036 in certain tenses; to utter, i.e., speak or say

#11

φείδομαι

G5339

now I forbear

to be chary of, i.e., (subjectively) to abstain or (objectively) to treat leniently

#12

δέ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#13

μή

G3361

lest

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

#14

τι

G5100

any man

some or any person or object

#15

εἰς

G1519

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

#16

ἐμὲ

G1691

#17

λογίσηται

G3049

should think

to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)

#18

ὑπὲρ

G5228

above

"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super

#19

ὃ

G3739

that which

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#20

βλέπει

G991

he seeth

to look at (literally or figuratively)

#21

με

G3165

#22

ἢ

G2228

to be or

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

#23

ἀκούει

G191

that he heareth

to hear (in various senses)

#24

τι

G5100

any man

some or any person or object

#25

ἐξ

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#26

ἐμοῦ

G1700

of me

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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 2 Corinthians.

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 glory in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does understanding glory in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
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?