Colossians 4:1

Authorized King James Version

Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
κύριον
G2962
Masters
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#3
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
δίκαιον
G1342
that which is just
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)
#5
καὶ
G2532
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἰσότητα
G2471
equal
likeness (in condition or proportion); by implication, equity
#8
τοῖς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
δούλοις
G1401
unto your servants
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
#10
παρέχεσθε
G3930
give
to hold near, i.e., present, afford, exhibit, furnish occasion
#11
εἰδότες
G1492
knowing
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#12
ὅτι
G3754
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#13
καὶ
G2532
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
ὑμεῖς
G5210
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#15
ἔχετε
G2192
have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#16
κύριον
G2962
Masters
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#17
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#18
οὐρανοῖς
G3772
heaven
the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)

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 introducing key themes that will be developed throughout 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