King James Version

What Does Ephesians 5:33 Mean?

Ephesians 5:33 in the King James Version says “Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence he... — study this verse from Ephesians chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Ephesians 5:33 · KJV


Context

31

For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.

32

This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

33

Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
[Verse 5:33 text would be quoted here] This verse in Ephesians chapter 5 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.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Written during Paul's Roman imprisonment (60-62 CE), this verse in chapter 5 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 5:33 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 · 21 words
πλὴν1 of 21

Nevertheless

G4133

moreover (besides), i.e., albeit, save that, rather, yet

καὶ2 of 21
G2532

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

ὑμεῖς3 of 21

of you

G5210

you (as subjective of verb)

οἱ4 of 21
G3588

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

καθ'5 of 21

in particular

G2596

(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)

ἕνα6 of 21

every one

G1520

one

ἕκαστος7 of 21
G1538

each or every

τὴν8 of 21
G3588

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

ἑαυτόν9 of 21

himself

G1438

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

γυνὴ10 of 21

the wife

G1135

a woman; specially, a wife

οὕτως11 of 21

so

G3779

in this way (referring to what precedes or follows)

ἀγαπάτω12 of 21

let

G25

to love (in a social or moral sense)

ὡς13 of 21

even as

G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἑαυτόν14 of 21

himself

G1438

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

15 of 21
G3588

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

δὲ16 of 21

and

G1161

but, and, etc

γυνὴ17 of 21

the wife

G1135

a woman; specially, a wife

ἵνα18 of 21

see that

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

φοβῆται19 of 21

she reverence

G5399

to frighten, i.e., (passively) to be alarmed; by analogy, to be in awe of, i.e., revere

τὸν20 of 21
G3588

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

ἄνδρα21 of 21

her husband

G435

a man (properly as an individual male)


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 5:33 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 5:33 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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