Philemon 1:12

Authorized King James Version

Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὃν
Whom
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
ἀνέπεμψα·
I have sent again
to send up or back
#3
σὺ
thou
thou
#4
δὲ
therefore
but, and, etc
#5
αὐτόν,
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
#6
τοῦτ'
that thing
#7
ἔστιν
he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are
#8
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἐμὰ
is mine own
my
#10
σπλάγχνα·
bowels
an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy
#11
πρὸσλαβοῦ·
receive
to take to oneself, i.e., use (food), lead (aside), admit (to friendship or hospitality)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philemon. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, 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 the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Philemon Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection