2 Peter 1:20

Authorized King James Version

Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τοῦτο
this
that thing
#2
πρῶτον
first
firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)
#3
γινώσκοντες
Knowing
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#4
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#5
πᾶσα
all, any, every, the whole
#6
προφητεία
prophecy
prediction (scriptural or other)
#7
γραφῆς
of the scripture
a document, i.e., holy writ (or its contents or a statement in it)
#8
ἰδίας
of any private
pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate
#9
ἐπιλύσεως
interpretation
explanation, i.e., application
#10
οὐ
no
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#11
γίνεται·
is
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection