Acts 23:2

Authorized King James Version

And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
ἀρχιερεὺς
the high priest
the high-priest (literally, of the jews; typically, christ); by extension a chief priest
#4
Ἁνανίας
Ananias
ananias, the name of three israelites
#5
ἐπέταξεν
commanded
to arrange upon, i.e., order
#6
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
παρεστῶσιν
them that stood by
to stand beside, i.e., (transitively) to exhibit, proffer, (specially), recommend, (figuratively) substantiate; or (intransitively) to be at hand (or
#8
αὐτοῦ
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#9
τύπτειν
to smite
to "thump", i.e., cudgel or pummel (properly, with a stick or bastinado), but in any case by repeated blows; thus differing from g3817 and g3960, whic
#10
αὐτοῦ
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#11
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
στόμα
on the mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e

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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