Philemon 1:20

Authorized King James Version

Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Ναί,
Yea
yes
#2
ἀδελφέ
G80
brother
a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)
#3
ἐγώ
me
i, me
#4
σου
of thee
of thee, thy
#5
ὀναίμην
have joy
for which another prolonged form (????) is used as an alternate in some tenses (unless indeed it be identical with the base of g3686 through the idea
#6
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#7
Κυρίῳ.
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#8
ἀνάπαυσόν
refresh
(reflexively) to repose (literally or figuratively (be exempt), remain); by implication, to refresh
#9
μου
my
of me
#10
τὰ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
σπλάγχνα
bowels
an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy
#12
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#13
Κυρίῳ.
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philemon. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, 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 sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection