Romans 3:17
And the way of peace have they not known:
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 5
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὁδὸν
the way
G3598
ὁδὸν
the way
Strong's:
G3598
Word #:
2 of 5
a road; by implication, a progress (the route, act or distance); figuratively, a mode or means
εἰρήνης
of peace
G1515
εἰρήνης
of peace
Strong's:
G1515
Word #:
3 of 5
peace (literally or figuratively); by implication, prosperity
Cross References
Isaiah 59:8The way of peace they know not; and there is no judgment in their goings: they have made them crooked paths: whosoever goeth therein shall not know peace.Romans 5:1Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:Luke 1:79To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
Historical Context
Israel longed for messianic peace—the lion lying with the lamb, swords beaten into plowshares. Yet Isaiah condemned Israel for not knowing peace's path because they abandoned justice and righteousness. Paul applies this to all: Jew and Gentile alike are alienated from God's shalom.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you pursue false peace through conflict avoidance, compromise, or external solutions rather than gospel reconciliation?
- What would it mean to truly "know" the way of peace that only Christ provides?
- How does recognizing your inability to find peace drive you to the One who is our peace?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And the way of peace have they not known. From Isaiah 59:8, kai hodon eirēnēs ouk egnōsan (καὶ ὁδὸν εἰρήνης οὐκ ἔγνωσαν, "and the way of peace they have not known"). Eirēnē (εἰρήνη, translating Hebrew shalom) encompasses wholeness, harmony, right relationships—with God, others, creation, and self.
Fallen humanity doesn't know—ginōskō (γινώσκω), experiential knowledge, not mere awareness—the path to peace. We are cosmic orphans, having rebelled against the Father of peace (Philippians 4:9). Every human attempt at peace through politics, philosophy, or religion fails because it doesn't address sin's root. Only Christ is our peace (Ephesians 2:14), reconciling us to God and thus making possible reconciliation with others. Apart from Him, we wander in enmity and strife.