King James Version
Galatians 4:1 in the King James Version says “Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;” — study this verse from Galatians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;”
Galatians 4:1 · KJV
Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: elements: or, rudiments
KJV Study — Public Domain
“I 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
“as long as”
G1909properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
a space of time (in general, and thus properly distinguished from g2540, which designates a fixed or special occasion; and from g0165, which denotes a
“That the heir”
G2818a sharer by lot, i.e., inheritor (literally or figuratively); by implication, a possessor
“a child”
G3516not speaking, i.e., an infant (minor); figuratively, a simple-minded person, an immature christian
“differeth”
G1308to bear through, i.e., (literally) transport; usually to bear apart, i.e., (objectively) to toss about (figuratively, report); subjectively, to "diffe
“from a servant”
G1401a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
“lord”
G2962supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
This verse is found in the book of Galatians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Galatians 4:1 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 Galatians 4:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge