Hebrews 3:17

Authorized King James Version

But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τίσιν
with whom
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
προσώχθισεν
was he grieved
to feel indignant at
#4
τεσσαράκοντα
forty
forty
#5
ἔτη
years
a year
#6
οὐχὶ
was it not
not indeed
#7
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἁμαρτήσασιν
with them that had sinned
properly, to miss the mark (and so not share in the prize), i.e., (figuratively) to err, especially (morally) to sin
#9
ὧν
whose
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#10
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
κῶλα
carcases
a limb of the body (as if lopped)
#12
ἔπεσεν
fell
to fall (literally or figuratively)
#13
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#14
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
ἐρήμῳ
the wilderness
lonesome, i.e., (by implication) waste (usually as a noun, g5561 being implied)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Hebrews, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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 Hebrews.

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

Related Resources

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

Topics