2 Corinthians 2:4

Authorized King James Version

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐκ
G1537
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#2
γὰρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
πολλῶν
G4183
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#4
θλίψεως
G2347
affliction
pressure (literally or figuratively)
#5
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
συνοχῆς
G4928
anguish
restraint, i.e., (figuratively) anxiety
#7
καρδίας
G2588
of heart
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#8
ἔγραψα
G1125
I wrote
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#9
ὑμῖν
G5213
unto you
to (with or by) you
#10
διὰ
G1223
with
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#11
πολλῶν
G4183
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#12
δακρύων
G1144
tears
a tear
#13
οὐχ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#14
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#15
λυπηθῆτε
G3076
that ye should be grieved
to distress; reflexively or passively, to be sad
#16
ἀλλὰ
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#17
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
ἀγάπην
G26
the love
love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast
#19
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#20
γνῶτε
G1097
ye might know
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#21
ἣν
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#22
ἔχω
G2192
I have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#23
περισσοτέρως
G4056
more abundantly
more superabundantly
#24
εἰς
G1519
unto
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#25
ὑμᾶς
G5209
you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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

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 patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection