King James Version
Acts 23:8 in the King James Version says “For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.” — study this verse from Acts chapter 23 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.”
Acts 23:8 · KJV
But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out in the council, Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and resurrection of the dead I am called in question.
And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and the multitude was divided.
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees confess both.
And there arose a great cry: and the scribes that were of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove, saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight against God.
And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from among them, and to bring him into the castle.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“the Sadducees”
G4523a sadducaean (i.e., tsadokian), or follower of a certain heretical israelite
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
“For”
G1063properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
“say”
G3004properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
“no”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“resurrection”
G386a standing up again, i.e., (literally) a resurrection from death (individual, genitive case or by implication, (its author)), or (figuratively) a (mor
“angel”
G32compare g0034) (to bring tidings); a messenger; especially an "angel"; by implication, a pastor
“spirit”
G4151a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
“the Pharisees”
G5330a separatist, i.e., exclusively religious; a pharisean, i.e., jewish sectary
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Acts 23:8 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Acts 23:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge