Luke 23:47

Authorized King James Version

Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ἰδὼν
saw
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#2
δὲ
Now
but, and, etc
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ἑκατόνταρχος
when the centurion
the captain of one hundred men
#5
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
γενόμενον
what was done
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#7
ἐδόξασεν
he glorified
to render (or esteem) glorious (in a wide application)
#8
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
θεὸν
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#10
λέγων,
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#11
Ὄντως
Certainly
really
#12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἄνθρωπος
man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#14
οὗτος
this
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#15
δίκαιος
a righteous
equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)
#16
ἦν
was
i (thou, etc.) was (wast or were)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Luke. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

People

Study Resources