Acts 2:8

Authorized King James Version

And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
πῶς
how
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
#3
ἡμεῖς
we
we (only used when emphatic)
#4
ἀκούομεν
hear
to hear (in various senses)
#5
ἕκαστος
every
each or every
#6
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἰδίᾳ
own
pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate
#8
διαλέκτῳ
tongue
a (mode of) discourse, i.e., "dialect"
#9
ἡμῶν
man in our
of (or from) us
#10
ἐν
wherein
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#12
ἐγεννήθημεν
we were born
to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. 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 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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