Mark 3:9

Authorized King James Version

And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng him.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
εἶπεν
he spake
to speak or say (by word or writing)
#3
τοῖς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
μαθηταῖς
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#5
αὐτόν·
him
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
#6
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#7
πλοιάριον
a small ship
a boat
#8
προσκαρτερῇ
should wait on
to be earnest towards, i.e., (to a thing) to persevere, be constantly diligent, or (in a place) to attend assiduously all the exercises, or (to a pers
#9
αὐτόν·
him
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
#10
διὰ
because
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#11
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ὄχλον
of the multitude
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
#13
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#14
μὴ
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#15
θλίβωσιν
they should throng
to crowd (literally or figuratively)
#16
αὐτόν·
him
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

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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