Philippians 4:7

Authorized King James Version

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

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

τὰ

G3588

which

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

εἰρήνη

G1515

the peace

peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity

τὰ

G3588

which

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

θεοῦ

G2316

of God

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

τὰ

G3588

which

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

ὑπερέχουσα

G5242

passeth

to hold oneself above, i.e., (figuratively) to excel; participle (as adjective, or neuter as noun) superior, superiority

πάντα

G3956

all

all, any, every, the whole

νοῦν

G3563

understanding

the intellect, i.e., mind (divine or human; in thought, feeling, or will); by implication, meaning

#10

φρουρήσει

G5432

shall keep

to be a watcher in advance, i.e., to mount guard as a sentinel (post spies at gates); figuratively, to hem in, protect

#11

τὰ

G3588

which

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

#12

καρδίας

G2588

hearts

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#13

ὑμῶν

G5216

minds

of (from or concerning) you

#14

καὶ

G2532

And

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

#15

τὰ

G3588

which

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

#16

νοήματα

G3540

a perception, i.e., purpose, or (by implication) the intellect, disposition, itself

#17

ὑμῶν

G5216

minds

of (from or concerning) you

#18

ἐν

G1722

through

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

#19

Χριστῷ

G5547

Christ

anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus

#20

Ἰησοῦ

G2424

Jesus

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

Cross References

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

¹ John 14:27 John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
— My peace I give unto you
² Colossians 3:15 Colossians 3:15
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
— Let peace of God rule

Analysis

Within the broader context of Philippians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of peace connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about peace, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Philippians.

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 Philippians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes peace in this particular way.

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?
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 does this verse's literary context within Philippians chapter 4 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Peace