Galatians 4:23

Authorized King James Version

But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλ'
G235
But
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
μὲν
G3303
he
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
#4
ἐκ
G1537
he of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#5
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
παιδίσκης
G3814
the bondwoman
a girl, i.e., (specially), a female slave or servant
#7
κατὰ
G2596
after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#8
σάρκα
G4561
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
#9
γεγέννηται
G1080
was born
to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate
#10
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
δὲ
G1161
but
but, and, etc
#12
ἐκ
G1537
he of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#13
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ἐλευθέρας
G1658
the freewoman
unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia
#15
διὰ
G1223
was by
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#16
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
ἐπαγγελίας
G1860
promise
an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)

Analysis

This verse develops the covenant theme central to Galatians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of covenant 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