Mark 10:26

Authorized King James Version

And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
περισσῶς
out of measure
superabundantly
#4
ἐξεπλήσσοντο
they were astonished
to strike with astonishment
#5
λέγοντες
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
#6
πρὸς
among
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
ἑαυτούς
themselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#8
Καὶ
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#9
τίς
Who
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#10
δύναται
then can
to be able or possible
#11
σωθῆναι
be saved
to save, i.e., deliver or protect (literally or figuratively)

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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