Ephesians 5:19

Authorized King James Version

Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

Word-by-Word Analysis

λαλοῦντες

G2980

Speaking

to talk, i.e., utter words

ἑαυτοῖς

G1438

to yourselves

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

ψαλμοῖς

G5568

in psalms

a set piece of music, i.e., a sacred ode (accompanied with the voice, harp or other instrument; a "psalm"); collectively, the book of the psalms

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὕμνοις

G5215

hymns

probably akin to g0103; compare h5667); a "hymn" or religious ode (one of the psalms)

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ᾠδαῖς

G5603

songs

a chant or "ode" (the general term for any words sung; while g5215 denotes especially a religious metrical composition, and g5568 still more specially

πνευματικαῖς

G4152

spiritual

non-carnal, i.e., (humanly) ethereal (as opposed to gross), or (daemoniacally) a spirit (concretely), or (divinely) supernatural, regenerate, religiou

ᾄδοντες

G103

singing

to sing

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#11

ψάλλοντες

G5567

making melody

to twitch or twang, i.e., to play on a stringed instrument (celebrate the divine worship with music and accompanying odes)

#12

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#13

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#14

καρδίᾳ

G2588

heart

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#15

ὑμῶν

G5216

your

of (from or concerning) you

#16

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#17

κυρίῳ

G2962

to the Lord

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ephesians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Salvation