Galatians 5:17

Authorized King James Version

For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἡ
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
σαρκός
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
#4
ἐπιθυμεῖ
G1937
lusteth
to set the heart upon, i.e., long for (rightfully or otherwise)
#5
κατὰ
G2596
against
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#6
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
πνεῦμα
G4151
the Spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#8
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
δὲ
G1161
and
but, and, etc
#10
πνεῦμα
G4151
the Spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#11
κατὰ
G2596
against
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#12
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
σαρκός
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
#14
ταῦτα
G5023
the things
these things
#15
δὲ
G1161
and
but, and, etc
#16
ἀντίκειται
G480
are contrary
to lie opposite, i.e., be adverse (figuratively, repugnant) to
#17
ἀλλήλοις
G240
the one to the other
one another
#18
ἵνα
G2443
so that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#19
μὴ
G3361
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#20
ἃ
G3739
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#21
ἂν
G302
that ye would
whatsoever
#22
θέλητε
G2309
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#23
ταῦτα
G5023
the things
these things
#24
ποιῆτε
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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