Galatians 6:4

Authorized King James Version

But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
G1161
But
but, and, etc
#3
ἔργον
G2041
work
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
#4
ἑαυτὸν
G1438
himself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#5
δοκιμαζέτω
G1381
let
to test (literally or figuratively); by implication, to approve
#6
ἕκαστος
G1538
every man
each or every
#7
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
τότε
G5119
then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#9
εἰς
G1519
in
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#10
ἑαυτὸν
G1438
himself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#11
μόνον
G3441
alone
remaining, i.e., sole or single; by implication, mere
#12
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
καύχημα
G2745
rejoicing
a boast (properly, the object; by implication, the act) in a good or a bad sense
#14
ἕξει
G2192
shall he have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#15
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
οὐκ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#17
εἰς
G1519
in
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#18
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
ἕτερον·
G2087
another
(an-, the) other or different

Analysis

Within the broader context of Galatians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection