[B-Greek] AGAPAN and FILEIN in John 21

Alexander Ring akring at mac.com
Wed Dec 9 11:23:52 EST 2009


> Also, it is interesting that in the footnote it says this:
>
> “The Vulg. Differs from Bengel, and rightly gives the reverse  
> explanation to AGAPAS  and FELEIS respectively; ‘diligis,’ diligis,’  
> twice, to represent the twice repeated AGAPAS, the love of choice  
> and judgment, esteem; and ‘amo, amo,’ to represent FILW, the love of  
> affection and impulse. The word AGAPAS sounds too cold to the ear of  
> Peter, who was now burning with love. He therefore substitutes in  
> his answer the word of affection, FILW. At the third time Peter had  
> gained his point; for the Lord now, instead of AGAPAS, gratifies  
> Peter by using FILEIS.”  (Bengel, John Albert, Gnomon of the New  
> Testament, Vol. 2, T&T Clark, Edinbrugh, 1877  pg. 500)
>

What I find really interesting is that this is the opposite of what I  
always heard via "urban legend" Greek; that the Lord was using a  
stronger word, and Peter falling back on the lesser.


Rev. Alexander Ring
11221 Farwest Dr
Lakewood, WA  98498

akring at mac.com

"Obvious" is the most dangerous word in mathematics.
- Eric Temple Bell, mathemetician





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