Luke 2:31

Authorized King James Version

Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
ἡτοίμασας
thou hast prepared
to prepare
#3
κατὰ
before
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#4
πρόσωπον
the face
the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person
#5
πάντων
of all
all, any, every, the whole
#6
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
λαῶν
people
a people (in general; thus differing from g1218, which denotes one's own populace)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Luke. The concept of covenant community 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 covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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