Matthew 19:10

Authorized King James Version

His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
λέγουσιν
say
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#2
αὐτοῦ,
His
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
#3
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
μαθηταὶ
disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#5
αὐτοῦ,
His
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
Εἰ
If
if, whether, that, etc
#7
οὕτως
so
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#8
ἐστὶν
be
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#9
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#10
αἰτία
the case
a cause (as if asked for), i.e., (logical) reason (motive, matter), (legal) crime (alleged or proved)
#11
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
ἀνθρώπου
of the man
man-faced, i.e., a human being
#13
μετὰ
with
properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)
#14
τῆς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
γυναικός,
his wife
a woman; specially, a wife
#16
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#17
συμφέρει
good
to bear together (contribute), i.e., (literally) to collect, or (figuratively) to conduce; especially (neuter participle as a noun) advantage
#18
γαμῆσαι
to marry
to wed (of either sex)

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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