Hebrews 7:4

Authorized King James Version

Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Θεωρεῖτε
consider
to be a spectator of, i.e., discern, (literally, figuratively (experience) or intensively (acknowledge))
#2
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#3
πηλίκος
how great
how much (as an indefinite), i.e., in size or (figuratively) dignity
#4
οὗτος
this man
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#5
was unto whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#6
καὶ
even
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#7
δεκάτην
the tenth
a tenth, i.e., as a percentage or (technically) tithe
#8
Ἀβραὰμ
G11
Abraham
abraham, the hebrew patriarch
#9
ἔδωκεν
gave
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#10
ἐκ
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#11
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἀκροθινίων
the spoils
properly (in the plural) the top of the heap, i.e., (by implication) best of the booty
#13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
πατριάρχης
the patriarch
a progenitor ("patriarch")

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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