Acts 2:12

Authorized King James Version

And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐξίσταντο
amazed
to put (stand) out of wits, i.e., astound, or (reflexively) become astounded, insane
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
πάντες
all
all, any, every, the whole
#4
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
διηπόρουν
were in doubt
to be thoroughly nonplussed
#6
ἄλλον
another
"else," i.e., different (in many applications)
#7
πρὸς
to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#8
ἄλλον
another
"else," i.e., different (in many applications)
#9
λέγοντες
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#10
Τί
What
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#11
ἄν
whatsoever
#12
θέλοι
meaneth
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#13
τοῦτο
this
that thing
#14
εἶναι
to exist

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

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