Acts 7:54

Authorized King James Version

When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἀκούοντες
they heard
to hear (in various senses)
#2
δὲ
When
but, and, etc
#3
ταῦτα
these things
these things
#4
διεπρίοντο
they were cut
to saw asunder, i.e., (figuratively) to exasperate
#5
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
καρδίαις
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle
#7
αὐτόν
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
#8
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
ἔβρυχον
they gnashed
to grate the teeth (in pain or rage)
#10
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ὀδόντας
with their teeth
a "tooth"
#12
ἐπ'
on
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#13
αὐτόν
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

Analysis

Within the broader context of Acts, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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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