John 5:26

Authorized King James Version

For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;

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
ἔχειν
hath
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#6
ζωὴν
life
life (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
ἑαυτῷ
himself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#9
οὕτως
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#10
ἔδωκεν
hath he given
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#11
καὶ
so
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
υἱῷ
to the Son
a "son" (sometimes of animals), used very widely of immediate, remote or figuratively, kinship
#14
ζωὴν
life
life (literally or figuratively)
#15
ἔχειν
hath
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#16
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#17
ἑαυτῷ
himself
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

Analysis

Within the broader context of John, this passage highlights divine love through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of life connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about life, 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 life in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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