John 9:28

Authorized King James Version

Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἐλοιδόρησαν
they reviled
to reproach, i.e., vilify
#2
οὖν
Then
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#3
αὐτὸν
him
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#4
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
εἶπον
said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#6
Σὺ
Thou
thou
#7
εἶ
art
thou art
#8
μαθηταί·
disciple
a learner, i.e., pupil
#9
ἐκείνου
his
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
#10
ἡμεῖς
we
we (only used when emphatic)
#11
δὲ
but
but, and, etc
#12
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
Μωσέως
Moses
moseus, moses, or mouses (i.e., mosheh), the hebrew lawgiver
#14
ἐσμὲν
are
we are
#15
μαθηταί·
disciple
a learner, i.e., pupil

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 historical context of the late first century during increasing tension between synagogue and church provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The late first-century Jewish-Christian tensions and Hellenistic thought would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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