Mark 13:17

Authorized King James Version

But woe to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days!

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐαὶ
woe
woe
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#5
γαστρὶ
child
the stomach; by analogy, the matrix; figuratively, a gourmand
#6
ἐχούσαις
to them that are
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#7
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
θηλαζούσαις
to them that give suck
to suckle, (by implication) to suck
#10
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
ἐκείναις
those
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
#12
ταῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
ἡμέραις
days
day, i.e., (literally) the time space between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours (but several days were usually reckoned by the jews as inclusive of

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original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