Matthew 9:29

Authorized King James Version

Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τότε
Then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#2
ἥψατο
touched he
properly, to attach oneself to, i.e., to touch (in many implied relations)
#3
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
ὀφθαλμῶν
eyes
the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)
#5
αὐτῶν
their
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
#6
λέγων,
saying
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#7
Κατὰ
According
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#8
τὴν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
πίστιν
faith
persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ
#10
ὑμῶν
to your
of (from or concerning) you
#11
γενηθήτω
be it
to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)
#12
ὑμῖν
unto you
to (with or by) you

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of faith connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about faith, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within Roman imperial rule over Jewish Palestine with messianic expectations. The author writes to address Jewish Christians seeking to understand Jesus as Messiah, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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