Hebrews 11:29

Authorized King James Version

By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry land: which the Egyptians assaying to do were drowned.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Πίστει
By faith
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
#2
διέβησαν
they passed through
to cross
#3
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
Ἐρυθρὰν
the Red
red, i.e., (with g2281) the red sea
#5
Θάλασσαν
sea
the sea (genitive case or specially)
#6
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#7
διὰ
by
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#8
ξηρᾶς
dry
arid; by implication, shrunken, earth (as opposed to water)
#9
ἡς
land which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#10
πεῖραν
assaying
a test, i.e., attempt, experience
#11
λαβόντες
to do
while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))
#12
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
Αἰγύπτιοι
the Egyptians
an egyptian or inhabitant of aegyptus
#14
κατεπόθησαν
were drowned
to drink down, i.e., gulp entire (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

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

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Hebrews Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes faith in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics