Galatians 5:14

Authorized King James Version

For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
γὰρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
πᾶς
G3956
all
all, any, every, the whole
#4
νόμος
G3551
the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
#5
ἐν
G1722
even in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
ἑνὶ
G1520
one
one
#7
λόγῳ
G3056
word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#8
πληροῦται,
G4137
is fulfilled
to make replete, i.e., (literally) to cram (a net), level up (a hollow), or (figuratively) to furnish (or imbue, diffuse, influence), satisfy, execute
#9
ἐν
G1722
even in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
τῷ·
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
Ἀγαπήσεις
G25
this Thou shalt love
to love (in a social or moral sense)
#12
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
πλησίον
G4139
neighbour
(adverbially) close by; as noun, a neighbor, i.e., fellow (as man, countryman, christian or friend)
#14
σου
G4675
thy
of thee, thy
#15
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#16
εαυτόν
G1438
thyself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, 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

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 Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection