Matthew 21:8

Authorized King James Version

And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#3
πλεῖστος
a very great
the largest number or very large
#4
ὄχλος
multitude
a throng (as borne along); by implication, the rabble; by extension, a class of people; figuratively, a riot
#5
ἐστρώννυον
spread
to "strew," i.e., spread (as a carpet or couch)
#6
ἑαυτῶν
their
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#7
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἱμάτια
garments
a dress (inner or outer)
#9
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
ὁδῷ
the way
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
#12
ἄλλοι
"else," i.e., different (in many applications)
#13
δὲ
And
but, and, etc
#14
ἔκοπτον
cut down
to "chop"; specially, to beat the breast in grief
#15
κλάδους
branches
a twig or bough (as if broken off)
#16
ἀπὸ
from
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
#17
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
δένδρων
the trees
a tree
#19
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#20
ἐστρώννυον
spread
to "strew," i.e., spread (as a carpet or couch)
#21
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#22
τῇ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#23
ὁδῷ
the way
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means

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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