John 7:46

Authorized King James Version

The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀπεκρίθησαν
answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#2
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
ὑπηρέται
The officers
an under-oarsman, i.e., (generally) subordinate (assistant, sexton, constable)
#4
Οὐδέποτε
Never
not even at any time, i.e., never at all
#5
οὕτως
spake
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#6
ἐλάλησεν
to talk, i.e., utter words
#7
ἄνθρωπος,
man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#8
ὡς
like
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#9
οὗτος
this
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ἄνθρωπος,
man
man-faced, i.e., a human being

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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