Matthew 2:7

Authorized King James Version

Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Τότε
Then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
Ἡρῴδης
Herod
heroic; herod, the name of four jewish kings
#3
λάθρᾳ
when he had privily
privately
#4
καλέσας
called
to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)
#5
τοὺς
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
μάγους
the wise men
a magian (magi), i.e., oriental scientist; by implication, a magician
#7
ἠκρίβωσεν
diligently
to be exact, i.e., ascertain
#8
παρ'
of
properly, near; i.e., (with genitive case) from beside (literally or figuratively), (with dative case) at (or in) the vicinity of (objectively or subj
#9
αὐτῶν
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
τὸν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
χρόνον
what time
a space of time (in general, and thus properly distinguished from g2540, which designates a fixed or special occasion; and from g0165, which denotes a
#12
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
φαινομένου
appeared
to lighten (shine), i.e., show (transitive or intransitive, literal or figurative)
#14
ἀστέρος
the star
a star (as strown over the sky), literally or figuratively

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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