Galatians 3:19

Authorized King James Version

Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Τί

G5101

Wherefore

an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)

οὖν

G3767

then

(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly

ὁ

G3588

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

νόμος

G3551

serveth the law

law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat

τῶν

G3588

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

παραβάσεων

G3847

transgressions

violation

χάριν

G5484

because of

through favor of, i.e., on account of

προσετέθη

G4369

It was added

to place additionally, i.e., lay beside, annex, repeat

ἄχρις

G891

till

(of time) until or (of place) up to

#10

ᾧ

G3739

to whom

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

#11

ἔλθῃ

G2064

should come

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

#12

τὸ

G3588

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

#13

σπέρμα

G4690

the seed

something sown, i.e., seed (including the male "sperm"); by implication, offspring; specially, a remnant (figuratively, as if kept over for planting)

#14

ᾧ

G3739

to whom

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

#15

ἐπήγγελται

G1861

the promise was made

to announce upon (reflexively), i.e., (by implication) to engage to do something, to assert something respecting oneself

#16

διαταγεὶς

G1299

and it was ordained

to arrange thoroughly, i.e., (specially) institute, prescribe, etc

#17

δι'

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#18

ἀγγέλων

G32

angels

compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor

#19

ἐν

G1722

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

#20

χειρὶ

G5495

the hand

the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)

#21

μεσίτου

G3316

of a mediator

a go-between, i.e., (simply) an internunciator, or (by implication) a reconciler (intercessor)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights covenant through simile or metaphorical language. 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 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of covenant, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of theology of covenant and God's relational commitment?
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 3 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?