Galatians 1:9
As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
Original Language Analysis
ὡς
As
G5613
ὡς
As
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
1 of 15
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
προειρήκαμεν
we said before
G4280
προειρήκαμεν
we said before
Strong's:
G4280
Word #:
2 of 15
used as alternate of g4277; to say already, predict
καὶ
so
G2532
καὶ
so
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 15
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
πάλιν
again
G3825
πάλιν
again
Strong's:
G3825
Word #:
5 of 15
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
λέγω
say I
G3004
λέγω
say I
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
6 of 15
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
εὐαγγελίζεται
gospel
G2097
εὐαγγελίζεται
gospel
Strong's:
G2097
Word #:
10 of 15
to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel
παρ'
any other
G3844
παρ'
any other
Strong's:
G3844
Word #:
11 of 15
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
ὃ
that
G3739
ὃ
that
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
12 of 15
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
παρελάβετε
ye have received
G3880
παρελάβετε
ye have received
Strong's:
G3880
Word #:
13 of 15
to receive near, i.e., associate with oneself (in any familiar or intimate act or relation); by analogy, to assume an office; figuratively, to learn
Cross References
Proverbs 30:6Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.Romans 16:17Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.Deuteronomy 4:2Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.
Historical Context
Repetition served rhetorical and mnemonic purposes in oral cultures where most believers were illiterate. Paul writes to be read aloud in assemblies; repetition ensures comprehension and emphasizes importance. The double curse also reflects Jewish legal practice requiring two or three witnesses. Paul essentially testifies twice against the Judaizers. His prior warning during founding ministry showed this wasn't new controversy but ongoing threat. The Galatians couldn't plead ignorance—Paul had equipped them with theological antibodies they failed to deploy.
Questions for Reflection
- Why must the church treat the gospel as fixed revelation rather than evolving tradition that adapts to culture?
- What responsibility do believers have to remember and apply warnings previously taught but currently neglected?
- Where is the line between theological openness for secondary matters and uncompromising defense of gospel essentials?
Analysis & Commentary
As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. Paul repeats the anathema verbatim, emphasizing absolute seriousness. "As we said before" (proeirēkamen, προειρήκαμεν, perfect tense) likely refers to his founding visit when he warned against false teaching. The perfect tense indicates past action with continuing present effect—his warning then remains authoritative now.
"So say I now again" (kai arti palin legō) intensifies the repetition. Paul doesn't soften or qualify but reinforces the curse. "If any man" (tis) broadens from "we or an angel" to anyone—no messenger, however credible, can alter the gospel without incurring damnation.
"Than that ye have received" (par' ho parelabete, παρ' ὃ παρελάβετε) uses technical language for tradition transmission. They "received" (paralambanō) authoritative teaching from Paul. The gospel is fixed revelation, not evolving tradition. Judaizers offered gospel "development"; Paul insists on gospel preservation. The double anathema (verses 8-9) functions as legal testimony (Deuteronomy 19:15)—two witnesses establish truth.