2 Corinthians 12:7

Authorized King James Version

And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
τῇ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ὑπερβολῇ
G5236
through the abundance
a throwing beyond others, i.e., (figuratively) supereminence; adverbially (with g1519 or g2596) pre- eminently
#4
τῶν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἀποκαλύψεων
G602
of the revelations
disclosure
#6
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#7
μὴ
G3361
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#8
ὑπεραίρωμαι
G5229
I should be exalted above measure
to raise oneself over, i.e., (figuratively) to become haughty
#9
ἐδόθη
G1325
there was given
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#10
μοι
G3427
to me
to me
#11
σκόλοψ
G4647
a thorn
withered at the front, i.e., a point or prickle (figuratively, a bodily annoyance or disability)
#12
τῇ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
σαρκί
G4561
in the flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#14
ἄγγελος
G32
the messenger
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#15
Σατᾶν,
G4566
of Satan
satan, i.e., the devil
#16
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#17
με
G3165
me
me
#18
κολαφίζῃ
G2852
buffet
to rap with the fist
#19
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#20
μὴ
G3361
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#21
ὑπεραίρωμαι
G5229
I should be exalted above measure
to raise oneself over, i.e., (figuratively) to become haughty

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection