Luke 18:23

Authorized King James Version

And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
ἀκούσας
when he heard
to hear (in various senses)
#4
ταῦτα
this
these things
#5
περίλυπος
very sorrowful
grieved all around, i.e., intensely sad
#6
ἐγένετο·
he was
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#7
ἦν
he was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)
#8
γὰρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#9
πλούσιος
rich
wealthy; figuratively, abounding with
#10
σφόδρα
very
of uncertain derivation) as adverb; vehemently, i.e., in a high degree, much

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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