Luke 20:23

Authorized King James Version

But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them, Why tempt ye me?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
κατανοήσας
he perceived
to observe fully
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
αὐτούς
their
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#4
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
πανουργίαν
craftiness
adroitness, i.e., (in a bad sense) trickery or sophistry
#6
εἶπεν
and said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#7
πρὸς
unto
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#8
αὐτούς
their
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#9
τί
Why
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#10
μέ
me
me
#11
πειράζετε
tempt ye
to test (objectively), i.e., endeavor, scrutinize, entice, discipline

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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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