2 Peter 3:13

Authorized King James Version

Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καινὴν
G2537
a new
new (especially in freshness; while g3501 is properly so with respect to age
#2
δὲ
G1161
Nevertheless
but, and, etc
#3
οὐρανοὺς
G3772
heavens
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)
#4
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
γῆν
G1093
earth
soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)
#6
καινὴν
G2537
a new
new (especially in freshness; while g3501 is properly so with respect to age
#7
κατὰ
G2596
according to
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#8
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἐπάγγελμα
G1862
promise
a self-committal (by assurance of conferring some good)
#10
αὐτοῦ
G846
his
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
#11
προσδοκῶμεν
G4328
look for
to anticipate (in thought, hope or fear); by implication, to await
#12
ἐν
G1722
wherein
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#13
οἷς
G3739
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#14
δικαιοσύνη
G1343
righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#15
κατοικεῖ
G2730
dwelleth
to house permanently, i.e., reside (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to 2 Peter. The concept of righteousness reflects the development of covenant 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of covenant within the theological tradition of 2 Peter Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes righteousness in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection