John 11:9

Authorized King James Version

Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀπεκρίθη
G611
answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#2
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
Ἰησοῦς
G2424
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#4
Οὐχὶ
G3780
not
not indeed
#5
δώδεκα
G1427
twelve
two and ten, i.e., a dozen
#6
εἰσιν
G1526
Are there
they are
#7
ὧραί
G5610
hours
an "hour" (literally or figuratively)
#8
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἡμέρᾳ
G2250
in the day
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#10
ἐάν
G1437
If
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#11
τις
G5100
any man
some or any person or object
#12
περιπατῇ
G4043
walk
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#13
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#14
τῇ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
ἡμέρᾳ
G2250
in the day
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of
#16
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#17
προσκόπτει
G4350
he stumbleth
to strike at, i.e., surge against (as water); specially, to stub on, i.e., trip up (literally or figuratively)
#18
ὅτι
G3754
because
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#19
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
φῶς
G5457
the light
luminousness (in the widest application, natural or artificial, abstract or concrete, literal or figurative)
#21
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
κόσμου
G2889
world
orderly arrangement, i.e., decoration; by implication, the world (including its inhabitants, literally or figuratively (morally))
#23
τούτου
G5127
of this
of (from or concerning) this (person or thing)
#24
βλέπει·
G991
he seeth
to look at (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. 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 John.

Historical Context

The historical context of the late first century during increasing tension between synagogue and church 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 late first-century Jewish-Christian tensions and Hellenistic thought 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

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