Matthew 9:24

Authorized King James Version

He said unto them, Give place: for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
λέγει
He said
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#2
αὐτοῦ
him
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
#3
Ἀναχωρεῖτε
Give place
to retire
#4
οὐ
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#5
γὰρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#6
ἀπέθανεν
dead
to die off (literally or figuratively)
#7
τὸ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
κοράσιον
the maid
a (little) girl
#9
ἀλλὰ
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#10
καθεύδει
sleepeth
to lie down to rest, i.e., (by implication) to fall asleep (literally or figuratively)
#11
καὶ
And
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#12
κατεγέλων
they laughed
to laugh down, i.e., deride
#13
αὐτοῦ
him
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

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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