Matthew 14:26

Authorized King James Version

And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear.

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
ἰδόντες
G1492
saw
used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
#3
αὐτὸν
G846
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
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
μαθηταὶ
G3101
when the disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#6
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
#7
τὴν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
θαλάσσαν
G2281
the sea
the sea (genitive case or specially)
#9
περιπατοῦντα
G4043
walking
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)
#10
ἐταράχθησαν
G5015
they were troubled
to stir or agitate (roil water)
#11
λέγοντες
G3004
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#12
ὅτι
G3754
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#13
Φάντασμά
G5326
a spirit
(properly concrete) a (mere) show ("phantasm"), i.e., spectre
#14
ἐστιν
G2076
It is
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#15
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#16
ἀπὸ
G575
for
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#17
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
φόβου
G5401
fear
alarm or fright
#19
ἔκραξαν
G2896
they cried out
properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)

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

This passage must be understood within Roman imperial rule over Jewish Palestine with messianic expectations. The author writes to address Jewish Christians seeking to understand Jesus as Messiah, 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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