King James Version

What Does Ephesians 1:21 Mean?

Ephesians 1:21 in the King James Version says “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, bu... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 1 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Ephesians 1:21 · KJV


Context

19

And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power, his mighty power: Gr. the might of his power

20

Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,

21

Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

22

And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,

23

Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 1:21 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 1 addresses theological theme. Key Greek terms include to be determined.

The theological focus is doctrinal emphasis, demonstrating Paul's emphasis on the cosmic Christ and the church as His body/bride/temple. The phrase emphasizes union with Christ as the foundation of all spiritual blessings.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 1 reflects the circular letter's purpose to multiple Asian churches. Ephesus was a major center of pagan worship (Artemis cult) and early Christianity, making Paul's teachings on spiritual warfare and Christian unity particularly relevant.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the truth of Ephesians 1:21 about verse-specific transform your daily walk with Christ?
  2. What does this verse teach about theological theme that challenges modern Christian practice?
  3. How can you apply the theological principle of doctrinal emphasis in your relationships and witness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 24 words
ὑπεράνω1 of 24

Far above

G5231

above upward, i.e., greatly higher (in place or rank)

παντὸς2 of 24

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ἀρχῆς3 of 24

principality

G746

(properly abstract) a commencement, or (concretely) chief (in various applications of order, time, place, or rank)

καὶ4 of 24

also

G2532

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

ἐξουσίας5 of 24

power

G1849

privilege, i.e., (subjectively) force, capacity, competency, freedom, or (objectively) mastery (concretely, magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token o

καὶ6 of 24

also

G2532

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

δυνάμεως7 of 24

might

G1411

force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)

καὶ8 of 24

also

G2532

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

κυριότητος9 of 24

dominion

G2963

mastery, i.e., (concretely and collectively) rulers

καὶ10 of 24

also

G2532

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

παντὸς11 of 24

all

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ὀνόματος12 of 24

name

G3686

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

ὀνομαζομένου13 of 24

that is named

G3687

to name, i.e., assign an appellation; by extension, to utter, mention, profess

οὐ14 of 24

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

μόνον15 of 24

only

G3440

merely

ἐν16 of 24

in

G1722

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

τῷ17 of 24
G3588

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

αἰῶνι18 of 24

world

G165

properly, an age; by extension, perpetuity (also past); by implication, the world; specially (jewish) a messianic period (present or future)

τούτῳ19 of 24

this

G5129

to (in, with or by) this (person or thing)

ἀλλὰ20 of 24

but

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

καὶ21 of 24

also

G2532

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

ἐν22 of 24

in

G1722

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

τῷ23 of 24
G3588

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

μέλλοντι·24 of 24

that which is to come

G3195

to intend, i.e., be about to be, do, or suffer something (of persons or things, especially events; in the sense of purpose, duty, necessity, probabili


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Ephesians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Ephesians 1:21 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Ephesians 1:21 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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