Galatians 4:13

Authorized King James Version

Ye know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἴδατε
Ye know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#2
δὲ
but, and, etc
#3
ὅτι
how
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#4
δι'
through
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#5
ἀσθένειαν
infirmity
feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty
#6
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
σαρκὸς
of the flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#8
εὐηγγελισάμην
I preached the gospel
to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel
#9
ὑμῖν
unto you
to (with or by) you
#10
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
πρότερον
at the first
previously

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Galatians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, 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 divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection