John 13:25

Authorized King James Version

He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐπιπεσὼν
lying on
to embrace (with affection) or seize (with more or less violence; literally or figuratively)
#2
δὲ
then
but, and, etc
#3
ἐκεῖνος
He
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
#4
ἐπὶ
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#5
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
στῆθος
breast
the (entire external) bosom, i.e., chest
#7
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
Ἰησοῦ
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#9
λέγει
saith
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#10
αὐτῷ
unto him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#11
Κύριε
Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#12
τίς
who
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#13
ἐστιν
is it
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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 literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of divine love within the theological tradition of John Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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