Luke 6:39

Authorized King James Version

And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Εἶπεν
he spake
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
παραβολὴν
a parable
a similitude ("parable"), i.e., (symbolic) fictitious narrative (of common life conveying a moral), apothegm or adage
#4
αὐτοῖς·
unto them
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#5
Μήτι
whether at all
#6
δύναται
Can
to be able or possible
#7
τυφλὸν
the blind
opaque (as if smoky), i.e., (by analogy) blind (physically or mentally)
#8
τυφλὸν
the blind
opaque (as if smoky), i.e., (by analogy) blind (physically or mentally)
#9
ὁδηγεῖν
lead
to show the way (literally or figuratively (teach))
#10
οὐχὶ
not
not indeed
#11
ἀμφότεροι
both
(in plural) both
#12
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#13
βόθυνον
the ditch
a hole (in the ground); specially, a cistern
#14
πεσοῦνται
fall
to fall (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Luke. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. 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 revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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