Galatians 3:15

Authorized King James Version

Brethren, I speak after the manner of men; Though it be but a man's covenant, yet if it be confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἀδελφοί
G80
Brethren
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#2
κατὰ
after the manner of
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#3
ἀνθρώπου
a man's
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#4
λέγω·
I speak
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#5
ὅμως
Though it be but
at the same time, i.e., (conjunctionally) notwithstanding, yet still
#6
ἀνθρώπου
a man's
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#7
κεκυρωμένην
yet if it be confirmed
to make authoritative, i.e., ratify
#8
διαθήκην
covenant
properly, a disposition, i.e., (specially) a contract (especially a devisory will)
#9
οὐδεὶς
no man
not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing
#10
ἀθετεῖ
disannulleth
to set aside, i.e., (by implication) to disesteem, neutralize or violate
#11
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#12
ἐπιδιατάσσεται
addeth thereto
to appoint besides, i.e., supplement (as a codicil)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights covenant through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant, 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 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 covenant. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection