Philippians 2:10

Authorized King James Version

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἵνα

G2443

That

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

ἐν

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῷ

G3588

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

ὀνόματι

G3686

the name

a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)

Ἰησοῦ

G2424

of Jesus

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

πᾶν

G3956

every

all, any, every, the whole

γόνυ

G1119

knee

the "knee"

κάμψῃ

G2578

should bow

to bend

ἐπουρανίων

G2032

of things in heaven

above the sky

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#11

ἐπιγείων

G1919

things in earth

worldly (physically or morally)

#12

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#13

καταχθονίων

G2709

things under the earth

subterranean, i.e., infernal (belonging to the world of departed spirits)

Cross References

Related verses that illuminate this passage (hover to preview):

¹ Isaiah 45:23 Isaiah 45:23
I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.
— Every knee shall bow
² Romans 14:11 Romans 14:11
For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God.
— Every tongue confess

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Philippians. 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 historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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Topics

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