Matthew 5:47

Authorized King James Version

And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#2
ἐὰν
G1437
if
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
#3
ἀσπάσησθε
G782
ye salute
to enfold in the arms, i.e., (by implication) to salute, (figuratively) to welcome
#4
τοὺς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#5
ἀδελφοὺς
G80
brethren
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#6
ὑμῶν
G5216
your
of (from or concerning) you
#7
μόνον
G3440
only
merely
#8
τί
G5101
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#9
περισσὸν
G4053
ye more
superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence
#10
ποιοῦσιν
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#11
οὐχὶ
G3780
not
not indeed
#12
καὶ
G2532
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#13
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
τελῶναι
G5057
the publicans
a tax-farmer, i.e., collector of public revenue
#15
οὕτως
G3779
so
in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)
#16
ποιοῦσιν
G4160
do
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

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 literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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