2 Corinthians 6:7

Authorized King James Version

By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐν
By
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#2
λόγῳ
the word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#3
ἀληθείας
of truth
truth
#4
ἐν
By
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
δυνάμει
the power
force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
#6
θεοῦ·
of God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#7
διὰ
by
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#8
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ὅπλων
the armour
an implement or utensil or tool (literally or figuratively, especially, offensive for war)
#10
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
δικαιοσύνης
of righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#12
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
δεξιῶν
on the right hand
the right side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually takes)
#14
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#15
ἀριστερῶν
on the left
the left hand (as second-best)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of righteousness reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection