Luke 1:52

Authorized King James Version

He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καθεῖλεν
He hath put down
to lower (or with violence) demolish (literally or figuratively)
#2
δυνάστας
the mighty
a ruler or officer
#3
ἀπὸ
from
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#4
θρόνων
their seats
a stately seat ("throne"); by implication, power or (concretely) a potentate
#5
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
ὕψωσεν
exalted
to elevate (literally or figuratively)
#7
ταπεινούς
them of low degree
depressed, i.e., (figuratively) humiliated (in circumstances or disposition)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

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

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