Matthew 5:6

Authorized King James Version

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Μακάριοι
Blessed
supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off
#2
τὴν
are they which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#3
πεινῶντες
do hunger
to famish (absolutely or comparatively); figuratively, to crave
#4
καὶ
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#5
διψῶντες
thirst
to thirst for (literally or figuratively)
#6
τὴν
are they which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
δικαιοσύνην
after righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#8
ὅτι
for
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
#9
αὐτοὶ
they
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
χορτασθήσονται
shall be filled
to fodder, i.e., (generally) to gorge (supply food in abundance)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of righteousness 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 righteousness. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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