Luke 21:3

Authorized King James Version

And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
εἶπεν
he said
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#3
Ἀληθῶς
Of a truth
truly
#4
λέγω
I say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#5
ὑμῖν
unto you
to (with or by) you
#6
ὅτι
that
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
χήρα
widow
a widow (as lacking a husband), literally or figuratively
#9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
πτωχὴ
poor
akin to g4422 and the alternate of g4098); a beggar (as cringing), i.e., pauper (strictly denoting absolute or public mendicancy, although also used i
#11
αὕτη
this
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#12
πλεῖον
in more than
more in quantity, number, or quality; also (in plural) the major portion
#13
πάντων
they all
all, any, every, the whole
#14
ἔβαλεν·
hath cast
to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

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 truth 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 truth in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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