Colossians 2:14

Authorized King James Version

Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐξαλείψας
G1813
Blotting out
to smear out, i.e., obliterate (erase tears, figuratively, pardon sin)
#2
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
καθ'
G2596
that was against
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#4
ἡμῶν
G2257
us
of (or from) us
#5
χειρόγραφον
G5498
the handwriting
something hand-written ("chirograph"), i.e., a manuscript (specially, a legal document or bond (figuratively))
#6
τοῖς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
δόγμασιν
G1378
of ordinances
a law (civil, ceremonial or ecclesiastical)
#8
ὃ
G3739
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#9
ἦν
G2258
was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#10
ὑπεναντίον
G5227
contrary
under (covertly) contrary to, i.e., opposed or (as noun) an opponent
#11
ἡμῖν
G2254
to us
to (or for, with, by) us
#12
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
αὐτὸ
G846
it
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
#14
ἦρκεν
G142
took
to lift up; by implication, to take up or away; figuratively, to raise (the voice), keep in suspense (the mind), specially, to sail away (i.e., weigh
#15
ἐκ
G1537
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#16
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
μέσου
G3319
the way
middle (as an adjective or (neuter) noun)
#18
προσηλώσας
G4338
nailing
to peg to, i.e., spike fast
#19
αὐτὸ
G846
it
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
#20
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#21
σταυρῷ·
G4716
to his cross
a stake or post (as set upright), i.e., (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e.,

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

Analysis

Within the broader context of Colossians, 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 Colossians.

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 Colossians 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