Luke 12:7

Authorized King James Version

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἀλλὰ
But
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#2
καὶ
even the very
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#3
αἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
τρίχες
hairs
of uncertain derivation; hair
#5
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
κεφαλῆς
head
the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively
#7
ὑμῶν
of your
of (from or concerning) you
#8
πᾶσαι
all
all, any, every, the whole
#9
ἠρίθμηνται
are
to enumerate or count
#10
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#11
οὖν
therefore
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#12
φοβεῖσθε·
Fear
to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere
#13
πολλῶν
than many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#14
στρουθίων
sparrows
a little sparrow
#15
διαφέρετε
ye are of more value
to bear through, i.e., (literally) transport; usually to bear apart, i.e., (objectively) to toss about (figuratively, report); subjectively, to "diffe

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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