Philemon 1:7

For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Word-by-Word Analysis

χάριν

G5485

joy

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ἔχομεν

G2192

we have

to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio

πολλὴν

G4183

great

(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

παράκλησιν

G3874

consolation

imploration, hortation, solace

ἐπὶ

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀγάπῃ

G26

love

love, i.e., affection or benevolence; specially (plural) a love-feast

#10

σοῦ

G4675

thee

of thee, thy

#11

ὅτι

G3754

because

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

#12

τὰ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#13

σπλάγχνα

G4698

the bowels

an intestine (plural); figuratively, pity or sympathy

#14

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

ἁγίων

G40

of the saints

sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)

#16

ἀναπέπαυται

G373

are refreshed

(reflexively) to repose (literally or figuratively (be exempt), remain); by implication, to refresh

#17

διὰ

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

#18

σοῦ

G4675

thee

of thee, thy

#19

ἀδελφέ

G80

brother

a brother (literally or figuratively) near or remote (much like g0001)

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing love fundamental to theology proper, revealing God's essential nature and character and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?