John 7:15

Authorized King James Version

And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man letters, having never learned?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἐθαύμαζον
marvelled
to wonder; by implication, to admire
#3
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
Ἰουδαῖοι
the Jews
judaean, i.e., belonging to jehudah
#5
λέγοντες
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#6
Πῶς
How
an interrogative particle of manner; in what way? (sometimes the question is indirect, how?); also as exclamation, how much!
#7
οὗτος
this man
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#8
γράμματα
letters
a writing, i.e., a letter, note, epistle, book, etc.; plural learning
#9
οἶδεν
knoweth
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#10
μὴ
never
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#11
μεμαθηκώς
having
to learn (in any way)

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 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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