John 2:6

Authorized King James Version

And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἦσαν
there were
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
ἐκεῖ
there
there; by extension, thither
#4
ὑδρίαι
waterpots
a water-jar, i.e., receptacle for family supply
#5
λίθιναι
of stone
stony, i.e., made of stone
#6
ἓξ
six
six
#7
κείμεναι
set
to lie outstretched (literally or figuratively)
#8
κατὰ
after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#9
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
καθαρισμὸν
the manner of the purifying
a washing off, i.e., (ceremonially) ablution, (morally) expiation
#11
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
Ἰουδαίων
of the Jews
judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah
#13
χωροῦσαι
containing
to be in (give) space, i.e., (intransitively) to pass, enter, or (transitively) to hold, admit (literally or figuratively)
#14
ἀνὰ
apiece
properly, up; but (by extension) used (distributively) severally, or (locally) at (etc.)
#15
μετρητὰς
firkins
a measurer, i.e., (specially), a certain standard measure of capacity for liquids
#16
δύο
two
"two"
#17
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#18
τρεῖς
three
"three"

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

People

Study Resources