Luke 23:30

Authorized King James Version

Then shall they begin to say to the mountains, Fall on us; and to the hills, Cover us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τότε
Then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
ἄρξονται
shall they begin
to commence (in order of time)
#3
λέγειν
to 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
#4
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ὄρεσιν
to the mountains
a mountain (as lifting itself above the plain)
#6
Πέσετε
Fall
to fall (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἐφ'
on
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#8
ἡμᾶς·
us
us
#9
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#10
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
βουνοῖς
to the hills
a hillock
#12
Καλύψατε
Cover
to cover up (literally or figuratively)
#13
ἡμᾶς·
us
us

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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