John 13:9

Authorized King James Version

Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
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
#2
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
#3
Σίμων
Simon
simon (i.e., shimon), the name of nine israelites
#4
Πέτρος
Peter
a (piece of) rock (larger than g3037); as a name, petrus, an apostle
#5
Κύριε
Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#6
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#7
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
πόδας
feet
a "foot" (figuratively or literally)
#9
μου
my
of me
#10
μόνον
only
merely
#11
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#12
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
χεῖρας
my hands
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
#15
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
κεφαλήν
my head
the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on divine love particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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