2 Corinthians 5:4

Authorized King James Version

For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
For
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
γὰρ
G1063
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ὄντες
G5607
we that are
being
#5
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
σκήνει
G4636
this tabernacle
a hut or temporary residence, i.e., (figuratively) the human body (as the abode of the spirit)
#8
στενάζομεν
G4727
do groan
to make (intransitively, be) in straits, i.e., (by implication) to sigh, murmur, pray inaudibly
#9
βαρούμενοι
G916
being burdened
to weigh down (figuratively)
#10
ἐπειδή
G1894
for that
since now, i.e., (of time) when, or (of cause) whereas
#11
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#12
θέλομεν
G2309
we would
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#13
ἐκδύσασθαι
G1562
be unclothed
to cause to sink out of, i.e., (specially as of clothing) to divest
#14
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#15
ἐπενδύσασθαι
G1902
clothed upon
to invest upon oneself
#16
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#17
καταποθῇ
G2666
might be swallowed up
to drink down, i.e., gulp entire (literally or figuratively)
#18
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
θνητὸν
G2349
mortality
liable to die
#20
ὑπὸ
G5259
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 (
#21
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
ζωῆς
G2222
life
life (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of life 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 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 life. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection