Acts 22:7

Authorized King James Version

And I fell unto the ground, and heard a voice saying unto me, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἔπεσον
I fell
to fall (literally or figuratively)
#2
τε
And
both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)
#3
εἰς
unto
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#4
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἔδαφος
the ground
a basis (bottom), i.e., the soil
#6
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#7
ἤκουσα
heard
to hear (in various senses)
#8
φωνῆς
a voice
a tone (articulate, bestial or artificial); by implication, an address (for any purpose), saying or language
#9
λεγούσης
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
μοι
unto me
to me
#11
Σαούλ
Saul
saul (i.e., shaul), the jewish name of paul
#12
Σαούλ
Saul
saul (i.e., shaul), the jewish name of paul
#13
τί
why
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#14
με
me
me
#15
διώκεις
persecutest thou
compare the base of g1169 and g1249); to pursue (literally or figuratively); by implication, to persecute

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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

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