John 7:27

Authorized King James Version

Howbeit we know this man whence he is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he is.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλὰ
Howbeit
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
τοῦτον
this man
this (person, as objective of verb or preposition)
#3
οἴδαμεν
we know
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#4
πόθεν
whence
from which (as interrogative) or what (as relative) place, state, source or cause
#5
ἐστίν
he is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#6
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#8
Χριστὸς
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#9
ὅταν
when
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#10
ἔρχηται
cometh
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#11
οὐδεὶς
no man
not even one (man, woman or thing), i.e., none, nobody, nothing
#12
γινώσκει
knoweth
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#13
πόθεν
whence
from which (as interrogative) or what (as relative) place, state, source or cause
#14
ἐστίν
he is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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