Galatians 4:19

Authorized King James Version

My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you,

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τεκνία
little children
an infant, i.e., (plural figuratively) darlings (christian converts)
#2
μου
My
of me
#3
οὗ
of whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#4
πάλιν
again
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
#5
ὠδίνω
I travail in birth
to experience the pains of parturition (literally or figuratively)
#6
ἄχρις
until
(of time) until or (of place) up to
#7
οὗ
of whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#8
μορφωθῇ
be formed
to fashion (figuratively)
#9
Χριστὸς
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#10
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
ὑμῖν·
you
to (with or by) you

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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