King James Version
Galatians 4:8 in the King James Version says “Howbeit then , when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.” — study this verse from Galatians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“Howbeit then , when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.”
Galatians 4:8 · King James Version
And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father.
Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ.
Howbeit then , when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.
But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? turn ye again: or, turn ye back elements: or, rudiments
Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years.
KJV Study — Public Domain
Compare 3 commentaries from different scholars and time periods for a richer understanding.
“Howbeit”
G235properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
“when ye knew”
G1492used only in certain past tenses, the others being borrowed from the equivalent g3700 and g3708; properly, to see (literally or figuratively); by impl
“God”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
“ye did service”
G1398to be a slave to (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary)
“no”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“unto them which by nature”
G5449growth (by germination or expansion), i.e., (by implication) natural production (lineal descent); by extension, a genus or sort; figuratively, native
“God”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
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 4:8 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 Galatians 4:8 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge