John 4:20

Authorized King James Version

Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
πατέρες
G3962
fathers
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
#3
ἡμῶν
G2257
Our
of (or from) us
#4
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
τούτῳ
G5129
this
to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)
#6
τῷ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ὄρει
G3735
mountain
a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain)
#8
προσκυνεῖν
G4352
to worship
to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)
#9
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
ὑμεῖς
G5210
ye
you (as subjective of verb)
#11
λέγετε
G3004
say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#12
ὅτι
G3754
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#13
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#14
Ἱεροσολύμοις
G2414
Jerusalem
hierosolyma (i.e., jerushalaim), the capitol of palestine
#15
ἐστὶν
G2076
is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#16
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#17
τόπος
G5117
the place
a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc
#18
ὅπου
G3699
where
what(-ever) where, i.e., at whichever spot
#19
δεῖ
G1163
men ought
also deon deh-on'; neuter active participle of the same; both used impersonally; it is (was, etc.) necessary (as binding)
#20
προσκυνεῖν
G4352
to worship
to fawn or crouch to, i.e., (literally or figuratively) prostrate oneself in homage (do reverence to, adore)

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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