Matthew 15:23

Authorized King James Version

But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὁ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
G1161
But
but, and, etc
#3
οὐκ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#4
ἀπεκρίθη
G611
he answered
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
#5
αὐτήν,
G846
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
#6
λόγον·
G3056
a word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#7
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#8
προσελθόντες
G4334
came
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
#9
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
μαθηταὶ
G3101
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#11
αὐτήν,
G846
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
#12
ἠρώτων
G2065
and besought
to interrogate; by implication, to request
#13
αὐτήν,
G846
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
#14
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
#15
Ἀπόλυσον
G630
Send
to free fully, i.e., (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce
#16
αὐτήν,
G846
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
#17
ὅτι
G3754
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#18
κράζει
G2896
she crieth
properly, to "croak" (as a raven) or scream, i.e., (genitive case) to call aloud (shriek, exclaim, intreat)
#19
ὄπισθεν
G3693
after
from g3700) with enclitic of source; from the rear (as a secure aspect), i.e., at the back (adverb and preposition of place or time)
#20
ἡμῶν
G2257
us
of (or from) us

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. 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 Matthew.

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

Related Resources

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

Topics

People

Study Resources