John 2:4

Authorized King James Version

Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.

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
αὐτῇ
unto her
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
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
Ἰησοῦς
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#5
Τί
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#6
ἐμοὶ
have I
to me
#7
καὶ
to do with
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
σοί
thee
to thee
#9
γύναι
Woman
a woman; specially, a wife
#10
οὔπω
not yet
not yet
#11
ἥκει
come
to arrive, i.e., be present (literally or figuratively)
#12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ὥρα
hour
an "hour" (literally or figuratively)
#14
μου
mine
of me

Analysis

This verse develops the divine love theme central to John. The concept of divine revelation reflects the essential nature of God revealed through Christ. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to theological biography emphasizing Jesus' divine identity, 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 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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