Ephesians 6:17

Authorized King James Version

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὴν

G3588

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

περικεφαλαίαν

G4030

the helmet

encirclement of the head, i.e., a helmet

τοῦ

G3588

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

σωτηρίου

G4992

of salvation

defender or (by implication) defense

δέξασθε

G1209

take

to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὴν

G3588

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

μάχαιραν

G3162

the sword

a knife, i.e., dirk; figuratively, war, judicial punishment

#10

τοῦ

G3588

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

#11

πνεύματος

G4151

of the Spirit

a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin

#12

ὅ

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#13

ἐστιν

G2076

which is

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#14

ῥῆμα

G4487

the word

an utterance (individually, collectively or specially),; by implication, a matter or topic (especially of narration, command or dispute); with a negat

#15

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Ephesians. The concept of salvation 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 soteria in Greek or yeshua in Hebrew, indicating deliverance and wholeness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood salvation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How does this verse's literary context within Ephesians chapter 6 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
In what ways does understanding salvation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?

Related Resources

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

Topics

Salvation