Luke 20:46

Authorized King James Version

Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Προσέχετε
G4337
Beware
(figuratively) to hold the mind (3563 implied) towards, i.e., pay attention to, be cautious about, apply oneself to, adhere to
#2
ἀπὸ
G575
of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#3
τοῖς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
γραμματέων
G1122
the scribes
a professional writer
#5
τοῖς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
θελόντων
G2309
desire
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
#7
περιπατεῖν
G4043
to walk
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#8
ἐν
G1722
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#9
στολαῖς
G4749
long robes
equipment, i.e., (specially), a "stole" or long-fitting gown (as a mark of dignity)
#10
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
φιλούντων
G5368
love
to be a friend to (fond of (an individual or an object)), i.e., have affection for (denoting personal attachment, as a matter of sentiment or feeling;
#12
ἀσπασμοὺς
G783
greetings
a greeting (in person or by letter)
#13
ἐν
G1722
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#14
τοῖς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
ἀγοραῖς
G58
the markets
properly, the town-square (as a place of public resort); by implication, a market or thoroughfare
#16
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
πρωτοκαθεδρίας
G4410
the highest seats
a sitting first (in the front row), i.e., preeminence in council
#18
ἐν
G1722
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#19
τοῖς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#20
συναγωγαῖς
G4864
the synagogues
an assemblage of persons; specially, a jewish "synagogue" (the meeting or the place); by analogy, a christian church
#21
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#22
πρωτοκλισίας
G4411
the chief rooms
a reclining first (in the place of honor) at the dinner-bed, i.e., preeminence at meals
#23
ἐν
G1722
at
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#24
τοῖς
G3588
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#25
δείπνοις
G1173
feasts
dinner, i.e., the chief meal (usually in the evening)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Luke.

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 love in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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