Hebrews 12:8

Authorized King James Version

But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
χωρίς
without
at a space, i.e., separately or apart from (often as preposition)
#4
ἐστε
are ye
ye are
#5
παιδείας
chastisement
tutorage, i.e., education or training; by implication, disciplinary correction
#6
ἧς
whereof
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#7
μέτοχοι
partakers
participant, i.e., (as noun) a sharer; by implication, an associate
#8
γεγόνασιν
are
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#9
πάντες
all
all, any, every, the whole
#10
ἄρα
then
a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive (as follows)
#11
νόθοι
bastards
a spurious or illegitimate son
#12
ἐστε
are ye
ye are
#13
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#14
οὐχ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#15
υἱοί
sons
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Hebrews. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation 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 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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