John 4:8
(For his disciples were gone away unto the city to buy meat.)
Original Language Analysis
οἱ
G3588
οἱ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
γὰρ
(For
G1063
γὰρ
(For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 11
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
αὐτοῦ
his
G846
αὐτοῦ
his
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 11
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
ἀπεληλύθεισαν
were gone away
G565
ἀπεληλύθεισαν
were gone away
Strong's:
G565
Word #:
5 of 11
to go off (i.e., depart), aside (i.e., apart) or behind (i.e., follow), literally or figuratively
εἰς
unto
G1519
εἰς
unto
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
6 of 11
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὴν
G3588
τὴν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
7 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πόλιν
the city
G4172
πόλιν
the city
Strong's:
G4172
Word #:
8 of 11
a town (properly, with walls, of greater or less size)
Historical Context
Samaritan cities would have had markets where Jews could purchase food, though strict Jews avoided such commerce. The disciples' willingness to buy food in Sychar shows practical necessity overriding some prejudices.
Questions for Reflection
- How does God arrange providential circumstances for evangelistic opportunities?
- What does the disciples' shock teach us about how Jesus constantly challenged cultural norms?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The disciples' absence to buy food creates opportunity for Jesus' private conversation with the woman. God's providence arranges circumstances for gospel encounters. Their later surprise (v. 27) at finding Jesus talking with her reveals how radical His ministry was, even to those closest to Him.