John 9:40

Authorized King James Version

And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
Ἤκουσαν
G191
heard
to hear (in various senses)
#3
ἐκ
G1537
some of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#4
οἱ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
Φαρισαίων
G5330
the Pharisees
a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary
#6
ταῦτα
G5023
these words
these things
#7
οἱ
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ὄντες
G5607
were
being
#9
μετ'
G3326
with
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
#10
αὐτῷ
G846
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
#11
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
εἶπον
G2036
said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#13
αὐτῷ
G846
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
#14
Μὴ
G3361
Are
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#15
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
ἡμεῖς
G2249
we
we (only used when emphatic)
#17
τυφλοί
G5185
blind
opaque (as if smoky), i.e., (by analogy) blind (physically or mentally)
#18
ἐσμεν
G2070
we are

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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

People

Study Resources