Matthew 15:11

Authorized King James Version

Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
Not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
εἰσερχόμενον
that which goeth
to enter (literally or figuratively)
#4
εἰς
into
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
#5
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
στόματος
the mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#7
κοινοῖ
defileth
to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)
#8
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἄνθρωπον
a man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#10
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#11
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἐκπορευόμενον
that which cometh
to depart, be discharged, proceed, project
#13
ἐκ
out of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#14
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
στόματος
the mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#16
τοῦτο
this
that thing
#17
κοινοῖ
defileth
to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)
#18
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
ἄνθρωπον
a man
man-faced, i.e., a human being

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 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 first-century Palestinian Jewish culture under Roman occupation 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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