Matthew 12:43

Authorized King James Version

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ὅταν
When
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#2
δὲ
but, and, etc
#3
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ἀκάθαρτον
the unclean
impure (ceremonially, morally (lewd) or specially, (demonic))
#5
πνεῦμα
spirit
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#6
ἐξέλθῃ
is gone
to issue (literally or figuratively)
#7
ἀπὸ
out of
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#8
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἀνθρώπου
a man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#10
διέρχεται
he walketh
to traverse (literally)
#11
δι'
through
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#12
ἀνύδρων
dry
waterless, i.e., dry
#13
τόπων
places
a spot (general in space, but limited by occupancy; whereas g5561 is a large but participle locality), i.e., location (as a position, home, tract, etc
#14
ζητοῦν
seeking
to seek (literally or figuratively); specially, (by hebraism) to worship (god), or (in a bad sense) to plot (against life)
#15
ἀνάπαυσιν
rest
intermission; by implication, recreation
#16
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#17
οὐχ
none
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#18
εὑρίσκει
findeth
to find (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, 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

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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