Acts 17:22

Authorized King James Version

Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Σταθεὶς
stood
to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)
#2
δὲ
Then
but, and, etc
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
Παῦλος
Paul
(little; but remotely from a derivative of g3973, meaning the same); paulus, the name of a roman and of an apostle
#5
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
μέσῳ
the midst
middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun)
#7
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
Πάγου
of Mars' hill
rock of ares, a place in athens
#9
Πάγου
of Mars' hill
rock of ares, a place in athens
#10
ἔφη
and said
to show or make known one's thoughts, i.e., speak or say
#11
Ἄνδρες
Ye men
a man (properly as an individual male)
#12
Ἀθηναῖοι
of Athens
an athenaean or inhabitant of athenae
#13
κατὰ
in
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#14
πάντα
all things
all, any, every, the whole
#15
ὡς
that
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#16
δεισιδαιμονεστέρους
are too superstitious
more religious than others
#17
ὑμᾶς
ye
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#18
θεωρῶ
I perceive
to be a spectator of, i.e., discern, (literally, figuratively (experience) or intensively (acknowledge))

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