Mark 7:27

Authorized King James Version

But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto the dogs.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ

G1161

But

but, and, etc

Ἰησοῦς

G2424

Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

εἶπεν

G2036

said

to speak or say (by word or writing)

αὐτῇ

G846

unto her

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

Ἄφες

G863

Let

to send forth, in various applications (as follow)

πρῶτον

G4412

first

firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)

χορτασθῆναι

G5526

be filled

to fodder, i.e., (generally) to gorge (supply food in abundance)

τὰ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#10

τέκνων

G5043

the children

a child (as produced)

#11

οὐ

G3756

not

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

#12

γάρ

G1063

for

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

#13

καλὸν

G2570

meet

properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished

#14

ἐστιν

G2076

it is

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

#15

λαβεῖν

G2983

to take

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

#16

τὸν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#17

ἄρτον

G740

bread

bread (as raised) or a loaf

#18

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#19

τέκνων

G5043

the children

a child (as produced)

#20

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#21

βαλεῖν

G906

to cast

to throw (in various applications, more or less violent or intense)

#22

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#23

κυναρίοις

G2952

it unto the dogs

a puppy

Analysis

Within the broader context of Mark, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. 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

How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?

Related Resources

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

People

The Twelve Apostles

Study Resources

Parables of Jesus