Ephesians 4:19

Authorized King James Version

Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἵτινες
Who
which some, i.e., any that; also (definite) which same
#2
ἀπηλγηκότες
being past feeling
to grieve out, i.e., become apathetic
#3
ἑαυτοὺς
themselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#4
παρέδωκαν
have given
to surrender, i.e yield up, entrust, transmit
#5
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
ἀσελγείᾳ
unto lasciviousness
licentiousness (sometimes including other vices)
#7
εἰς
to
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#8
ἐργασίαν
work
occupation; by implication, profit, pains
#9
ἀκαθαρσίας
uncleanness
impurity (the quality), physically or morally
#10
πάσης
all
all, any, every, the whole
#11
ἐν
with
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
πλεονεξίᾳ
greediness
avarice, i.e., (by implication) fraudulency, extortion

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ephesians. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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