Acts 16:26

Authorized King James Version

And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἄφνω
suddenly
unawares, i.e., unexpectedly
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
σεισμὸς
earthquake
a commotion, i.e., (of the air) a gale, (of the ground) an earthquake
#4
ἐγένετο
there was
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#5
μέγας
a great
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#6
ὥστε
so that
so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)
#7
σαλευθῆναι
were shaken
to waver, i.e., agitate, rock, topple or (by implication) destroy; figuratively, to disturb, incite
#8
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
θεμέλια
the foundations
something put down, i.e., a substruction (of a building, etc.), (literally or figuratively)
#10
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
δεσμωτηρίου·
of the prison
a place of bondage, i.e., a dungeon
#12
ἀνεῴχθησαν
were opened
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
#13
τε
and
both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)
#14
παραχρῆμα
immediately
at the thing itself, i.e., instantly
#15
αἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
θύραι
the doors
a portal or entrance (the opening or the closure, literally or figuratively)
#17
πάντων
all
all, any, every, the whole
#18
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#19
πάντων
all
all, any, every, the whole
#20
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#21
δεσμὰ
bands
a band, i.e., ligament (of the body) or shackle (of a prisoner); figuratively, an impediment or disability
#22
ἀνέθη
were loosed
to let up, i.e., (literally) slacken or (figuratively) desert, desist from

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Acts.

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

Related Resources

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

People