Mark 1:2

Authorized King James Version

As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ὡς
As
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#2
γέγραπται
it is written
to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe
#3
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#4
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
προφήταις,
the prophets
a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet
#6
Ἰδού,
Behold
used as imperative lo!
#7
ἐγὼ
I
i, me
#8
ἀποστέλλω
send
set apart, i.e., (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission) literally or figuratively
#9
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
ἄγγελόν
G32
messenger
compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
#11
μου
my
of me
#12
πρὸ
before
"fore", i.e., in front of, prior (figuratively, superior) to
#13
προσώπου
face
the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person
#14
σου,
thee
of thee, thy
#15
ὃς
which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#16
κατασκευάσει
shall prepare
to prepare thoroughly (properly, by external equipment; whereas g2090 refers rather to internal fitness); by implication, to construct, create
#17
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
ὁδόν
way
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
#19
σου,
thee
of thee, thy
#20
ἔμπροσθέν
before
in front of (in place (literally or figuratively) or time)
#21
σου,
thee
of thee, thy

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Mark. 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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