Galatians 4:15

Authorized King James Version

Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τίς
Where
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
οὖν
then
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
ἧν
is
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#4
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
μακαρισμὸς
the blessedness
beatification, i.e., attribution of good fortune
#6
ὑμῶν
ye
of (from or concerning) you
#7
μαρτυρῶ
I bear
to be a witness, i.e., testify (literally or figuratively)
#8
γὰρ
spake of for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#9
ὑμῖν
you
to (with or by) you
#10
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#11
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#12
δυνατὸν
it had been possible
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
#13
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ὀφθαλμοὺς
own eyes
the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)
#15
ὑμῶν
ye
of (from or concerning) you
#16
ἐξορύξαντες
ye would have plucked out
to dig out, i.e., (by extension) to extract (an eye), remove (roofing)
#17
ἂν
and have given them
whatsoever
#18
ἐδώκατέ
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#19
μοι
to me
to me

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection