King James Version
Galatians 4:23 in the King James Version says “But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.” — study this verse from Galatians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.”
Galatians 4:23 · KJV
Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?
For it is written, that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman.
But he who was of the bondwoman was born after the flesh; but he of the freewoman was by promise.
Which things are an allegory: for these are the two covenants; the one from the mount Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar. covenants: or, testaments Sinai: Gr. Sina
For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children. answereth to: or, is in the same rank with
KJV Study — Public Domain
“he”
G3303properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
“he of”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
“after”
G2596(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
“the flesh”
G4561flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
“was born”
G1080to procreate (properly, of the father, but by extension of the mother); figuratively, to regenerate
“he of”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
“the freewoman”
G1658unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia
“promise”
G1860an announcement (for information, assent or pledge; especially a divine assurance of good)
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 4:23 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 4:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge