Galatians 2:12

Authorized King James Version

For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.

Word-by-Word Analysis

πρὸ

G4253

before

"fore", i.e., in front of, prior (figuratively, superior) to

τοῦ

G3588

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

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἦλθον

G2064

came

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

τινας

G5100

that certain

some or any person or object

ἀπὸ

G575

from

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

Ἰακώβου

G2385

James

jacobus, the name of three israelites

μετὰ

G3326

with

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

τῶν

G3588

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

#10

ἐθνῶν

G1484

the Gentiles

a race (as of the same habit), i.e., a tribe; specially, a foreign (non-jewish) one (usually, by implication, pagan)

#11

συνήσθιεν·

G4906

he did eat

to take food in company with

#12

ὅτε

G3753

when

at which (thing) too, i.e., when

#13

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#14

ἦλθον

G2064

came

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

#15

ὑπέστελλεν

G5288

he withdrew

to withhold under (out of sight), i.e., (reflexively) to cower or shrink, (figuratively) to conceal (reserve)

#16

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#17

ἀφώριζεν

G873

separated

to set off by boundary, i.e., (figuratively) limit, exclude, appoint, etc

#18

ἑαυτόν

G1438

himself

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

#19

φοβούμενος

G5399

fearing

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

#20

τοὺς

G3588

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

#21

ἐκ

G1537

them which were of

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

#22

περιτομῆς

G4061

the circumcision

circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Galatians.

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 Galatians 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

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this verse's literary context within Galatians chapter 2 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?