2 Peter 2:22

Authorized King James Version

But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
συμβέβηκεν
it is happened
to walk (figuratively, transpire) together, i.e., concur (take place)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
αὐτοῖς
unto them
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#4
τὸ
according to
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
τὸ
according to
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἀληθοῦς
the true
true (as not concealing)
#7
παροιμίας
proverb
apparently a state alongside of supposition, i.e., (concretely) an adage; specially, an enigmatical or fictitious illustration
#8
Κύων
The dog
a dog ("hound") (literally or figuratively)
#9
ἐπιστρέψας
again
to revert (literally, figuratively or morally)
#10
ἐπὶ
to
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#11
τὸ
according to
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἴδιον
his own
pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate
#13
ἐξέραμα
vomit
vomit, i.e., food disgorged
#14
καί
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#15
ὗς
the sow
a hog ("swine")
#16
λουσαμένη
that was washed
to bathe (the whole person; whereas g3538 means to wet a part only, and g4150 to wash, cleanse garments exclusively)
#17
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#18
κὺλισμα
her wallowing
a wallow (the effect of rolling), i.e., filth
#19
βορβόρου
in the mire
mud

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

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