2 Corinthians 3:2

Authorized King James Version

Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
ἐπιστολὴ
epistle
a written message
#3
ἡμῶν
our
of (or from) us
#4
ὑμεῖς
Ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#5
ἐστε
are
ye are
#6
ἐγγεγραμμένη
written
to "engrave", i.e., inscribe
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
καρδίαις
hearts
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#10
ἡμῶν
our
of (or from) us
#11
γινωσκομένη
known
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#12
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
ἀναγινωσκομένη
read
to know again, i.e., (by extension) to read
#14
ὑπὸ
of
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
#15
πάντων
all
all, any, every, the whole
#16
ἀνθρώπων
men
man-faced, i.e., a human being

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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