Matthew 19:13

Authorized King James Version

Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Τότε
Then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
προσηνέχθη
were there brought
to bear towards, i.e., lead to, tender (especially to god), treat
#3
αὐτοῖς
them
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
παιδία
little children
a childling (of either sex), i.e., (properly), an infant, or (by extension) a half-grown boy or girl; figuratively, an immature christian
#5
ἵνα
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#6
τὰς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
χεῖρας
his hands
the hand (literally or figuratively (power); especially (by hebraism) a means or instrument)
#8
ἐπιθῇ
he should put
to impose (in a friendly or hostile sense)
#9
αὐτοῖς
them
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
#10
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
προσεύξηται·
pray
to pray to god, i.e., supplicate, worship
#12
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
δὲ
and
but, and, etc
#14
μαθηταὶ
the disciples
a learner, i.e., pupil
#15
ἐπετίμησαν
rebuked
to tax upon, i.e., censure or admonish; by implication, forbid
#16
αὐτοῖς
them
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

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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