Matthew 9:34

Authorized King James Version

But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through the prince of the devils.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οἱ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
Φαρισαῖοι
the Pharisees
a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary
#4
ἔλεγον
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
#5
Ἐν
through
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
τῷ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
ἄρχοντι
the prince
a first (in rank or power)
#8
τῶν
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
δαιμόνια
devils
a daemonic being; by extension a deity
#10
ἐκβάλλει
He casteth out
to eject (literally or figuratively)
#11
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
δαιμόνια
devils
a daemonic being; by extension a deity

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

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 Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.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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