Luke 3:9

Authorized King James Version

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ἤδη
now
even now
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#4
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἀξίνη
the axe
compare g4486); an axe
#6
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,
#7
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ῥίζαν
the root
a "root" (literally or figuratively)
#9
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
δένδρον
of the trees
a tree
#11
κεῖται·
is laid
to lie outstretched (literally or figuratively)
#12
πᾶν
every
all, any, every, the whole
#13
οὖν
therefore
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#14
δένδρον
of the trees
a tree
#15
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#16
ποιοῦν
forth
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#17
καρπὸν
fruit
fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively
#18
καλὸν
good
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
#19
ἐκκόπτεται
is hewn down
to exscind; figuratively, to frustrate
#20
καὶ
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#21
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#22
πῦρ
the fire
"fire" (literally or figuratively, specially, lightning)
#23
βάλλεται
cast
to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Luke, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, 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 divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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