Mark 4:21

Authorized King James Version

And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἔλεγεν
G3004
he said
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#3
αὐτοῖς
G846
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
#4
Μήτι
G3385
Is
whether at all
#5
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
λύχνος
G3088
a candle
a portable lamp or other illuminator (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἔρχεται
G2064
brought
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#8
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#9
ὑπὸ
G5259
under
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
#10
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
μόδιον
G3426
a bushel
a modius, i.e., certain measure for things dry (the quantity or the utensil)
#12
τεθῇ
G5087
be put
to place (in the widest application, literally and figuratively; properly, in a passive or horizontal posture, and thus different from g2476, which pr
#13
ἢ
G2228
or
disjunctive, or; comparative, than
#14
ὑπὸ
G5259
under
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
#15
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
κλίνην
G2825
a bed
a couch (for sleep, sickness, sitting or eating)
#17
οὐχ
G3756
and not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#18
ἵνα
G2443
to
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#19
ἐπὶ
G1909
on
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#20
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#21
λυχνίαν
G3087
a candlestick
a lamp-stand (literally or figuratively)
#22
ἐπιτεθῇ
G2007
be set
to impose (in a friendly or hostile sense)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Mark, this passage highlights salvation through rhetorical questioning that engages the reader. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Mark.

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 Mark 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

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources