Luke 1:4

Authorized King James Version

That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἵνα
That
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#2
ἐπιγνῷς
thou mightest know
to know upon some mark, i.e., recognize; by implication, to become fully acquainted with, to acknowledge
#3
περὶ
of
properly, through (all over), i.e., around; figuratively with respect to; used in various applications, of place, cause or time (with the genitive cas
#4
ὧν
wherein
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#5
κατηχήθης
thou hast been instructed
to sound down into the ears, i.e., (by implication) to indoctrinate ("catechize") or (genitive case) to apprise of
#6
λόγων
those things
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#7
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἀσφάλειαν
the certainty
security (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Luke. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, 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 salvation within the theological tradition of Luke 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

Related Resources

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

Topics

People

Study Resources