John 14:5

Authorized King James Version

Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way?

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
Θωμᾶς
Thomas
the twin; thomas, a christian
#4
Κύριε
Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#5
οὐκ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#6
εἰδέναι
know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#7
ποῦ
whither
as adverb of place; at (by implication, to) what locality
#8
ὑπάγεις·
thou goest
to lead (oneself) under, i.e., withdraw or retire (as if sinking out of sight), literally or figuratively
#9
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
πῶς
how
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
#11
δυνάμεθα
can we
to be able or possible
#12
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ὁδὸν
the way
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
#14
εἰδέναι
know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the essential nature of God revealed through Christ. The divine name or title here functions within theological biography emphasizing Jesus' divine identity to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 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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