John 5:21

Authorized King James Version

For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὥσπερ
as
just as, i.e., exactly like
#2
γὰρ
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
πατὴρ
the Father
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
#5
ἐγείρει
raiseth up
to waken (transitively or intransitively), i.e., rouse (literally, from sleep, from sitting or lying, from disease, from death; or figuratively, from
#6
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
νεκροὺς
the dead
dead (literally or figuratively; also as noun)
#8
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
ζῳοποιεῖ
quickeneth
to (re-)vitalize (literally or figuratively)
#10
οὕτως
so
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#11
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
υἱὸς
the Son
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
#14
οὓς
whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#15
θέλει
he will
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#16
ζῳοποιεῖ
quickeneth
to (re-)vitalize (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on divine love particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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