Acts 13:3

Authorized King James Version

And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τότε
And
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
νηστεύσαντες
when they had fasted
to abstain from food (religiously)
#3
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#4
προσευξάμενοι
prayed
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#5
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
ἐπιθέντες
laid
to impose (in a friendly or hostile sense)
#7
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
χεῖρας
their hands
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
#9
αὐτοῖς
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
#10
ἀπέλυσαν
they sent them away
to free fully, i.e., (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People