Mark 8:4

Authorized King James Version

And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness?

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
ἀπεκρίθησαν
answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#3
αὐτοῦ
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
#4
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
μαθηταὶ
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#6
αὐτοῦ
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
#7
Πόθεν
From whence
from which (as interrogative) or what (as relative) place, state, source or cause
#8
τούτους
these
these (persons, as objective of verb or preposition)
#9
δυνήσεταί
can
to be able or possible
#10
τις
a man
some or any person or object
#11
ὧδε
here
in this same spot, i.e., here or hither
#12
χορτάσαι
satisfy
to fodder, i.e., (generally) to gorge (supply food in abundance)
#13
ἄρτων
men with bread
bread (as raised) or a loaf
#14
ἐπ'
in
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#15
ἐρημίας
the wilderness
solitude (concretely)

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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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