Matthew 6:3

Authorized King James Version

But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
σου
thy
of thee, thy
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
ποιεῖ
doest
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#4
ἐλεημοσύνην
alms
compassionateness, i.e., (as exercised towards the poor) beneficence, or (concretely) a benefaction
#5
μὴ
not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#6
γνώτω
know
to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)
#7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
ἀριστερά
left hand
the left hand (as second-best)
#9
σου
thy
of thee, thy
#10
τί
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#11
ποιεῖ
doest
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
#12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#13
δεξιά
right hand
the right side or (feminine) hand (as that which usually takes)
#14
σου
thy
of thee, thy

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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