The Meaning of Galatians 3:19 Explained

Galatians 3:19

KJV: Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.

YLT: Why, then, the law? on account of the transgressions it was added, till the seed might come to which the promise hath been made, having been set in order through messengers in the hand of a mediator --

Darby: Why then the law? It was added for the sake of transgressions, until the seed came to whom the promise was made, ordained through angels in the hand of a mediator.

ASV: What then is the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise hath been made; and it was ordained through angels by the hand of a mediator.

KJV Reverse Interlinear

Wherefore  then  [serveth] the law?  It was added  because of  transgressions,  till  the seed  should come  to whom  the promise was made;  [and it was] ordained  by  angels  in  the hand  of a mediator. 

What does Galatians 3:19 Mean?

Study Notes

Wherefore then
The answer is sixfold:
(1) The law was added because of transgressions, i.e. to give to sin the character of transgression.
(a) Men had been sinning before Moses, but in the absence of law their sins were not put to their account. Romans 5:13 . The law gave to sin the character of "transgression," i.e. of personal guilt. (b) Also, since men not only continued to transgress after the law was given, but were provoked to transgress by the very law that forbade it Romans 7:8 , the law conclusively proved the inveterate sinfulness of man's nature Romans 7:11-13 .
(2) The law, therefore, "concluded all under sin" Romans 3:19 ; Romans 3:20 ; Romans 3:23 .
(3) The law was an ad interim dealing, "till the seed should come". Galatians 3:19 .
(4) The law shut sinful man up to faith as the only avenue of escape. Galatians 3:23 .
(5) The law was to the Jews what the pedagogue was in a Greek household, a ruler of children in their minority, and it had this character "unto" i.e. until Christ Galatians 3:24 .
(6) Christ having come, the believer is no longer under the pedagogue. Galatians 3:25
because of for the sake, i.e. in order that sin might be made manifest as transgression. See, Romans 4:15 ; Romans 5:20 ; Romans 7:7 ; Romans 7:13 .

Verse Meaning

In view of the foregoing argument, did the Law have any value? Yes, God had several purposes in it. Purpose, not cause, is in view, as is clear in the Greek text.
There have been four primary interpretations of what "because of transgressions" means. First, some take it to mean, "to restrain transgressions." [1] This seems legitimate since all law has a restraining effect. Second, some understand the phrase to mean, "to reveal transgressions." This seems valid in view of other statements that Paul made (cf. Romans 3:20; Romans 4:15; Romans 5:13). Third, it may mean, "to provoke transgressions." This, too, seems legitimate. A "Do not touch! Wet paint!" sign on a bench tempts people to touch the bench to see if the paint really is wet. Fourth, some have understood that Paul meant, "to awaken a conviction of transgressions." This seems less likely in this context since Paul showed more concern with the objective facts of salvation history than he did with the subjective development of faith in the individual. [2]
Angels who stood between God and the Israelites mediated the Mosaic Covenant (cf. Deuteronomy 33:2, LXX). Both God and the Jews had responsibilities under the Law. In contrast, God Himself revealed the Abrahamic Covenant, without mediation, in which only God had responsibilities ( Galatians 3:20; cf. Genesis 15).
"Just as it [3] had a point of origin on Mount Sinai, so also it had a point of termination-Mount Calvary." [4]
Paul clarified that the Law was only a temporary measure designed to function until Christ came. [5]
"The function of the law was to point people to Christ, not to provide for all time the way the people of God should live." [6]
"He [7] conceives of a sequence which may be summarized as follows: age of promise, age of law, age of Christ, the last being conceived as a fulfillment of the age of promise." [8]
The Christian Reconstruction movement answers Paul"s question, "Why the Law then?" ( Galatians 3:19) this way. God gave the Mosaic Law to provide a framework for the operation of every nation"s government. [5]6
"Reconstructionists anticipate a day when Christians will govern using the Old Testament as the law book" [10]
Reconstructionism rests on presuppositional apologetics, theonomy (lit. the rule of God), and postmillennialism. Other names for it are the theonomy movement and the Chalcedon school. It has gained many followers, many among charismatic evangelicals. Its popular appeal is that it claims God wants America and every other nation to function as God intended Israel to function, namely, as a theocracy. It fails to make a distinction between God"s unique purpose for Israel and His purpose for other nations throughout history. [11]

Context Summary

Galatians 3:11-19 - Inheritors Of The Promise
We are not under ceremonial law, as contained in the precepts of Leviticus. Our Savior has perfectly fulfilled them on the behalf of the Jewish people, whom He represented from His birth until His death. The law of ordinances is then abrogated on their behalf; and we Gentiles have never been placed under its thrall. As to the curse that is uttered against every one, whether Jew or Gentile, that offends against the moral code declared in the Ten Commandments at Sinai, our Savior has redeemed us from that by becoming accursed for us. There is nothing for us to do but to trust in His finished work, and to enter upon the same heritage of blessed service as was unfolded to Abraham in Genesis 12:1-13.
The Mosaic dispensation was a parenthesis in God's dealings with man. It was intended to produce conviction of sin. When God's ideal is held up before us, we become conscious of our deformities and our sins, and are driven to Christ. Let us see to it that we are truly united to Him who is the predicted seed of Abraham; for as we stand in Him, we become heirs to all the wealth of promise which is contained in the ancient covenant, made to the father of all who believe. [source]

Chapter Summary: Galatians 3

1  He asks what moved them to leave the faith, and hold onto the law
6  Those who believe are justified,
9  and blessed with Abraham
10  And this he shows by many reasons
15  The purpose of the Law
26  You are sons of God

Greek Commentary for Galatians 3:19

What then is the law? [τι ουν ο νομοσ]
Or, why then the law? A pertinent question if the Abrahamic promise antedates it and holds on afterwards. [source]
It was added because of transgressions [των παραβασεων χαριν προσετετη]
First aorist passive of προστιτημι — prostithēmi old verb to add to. It is only in apparent contradiction to Galatians 3:15., because in Paul‘s mind the law is no part of the covenant, but a thing apart “in no way modifying its provisions” (Burton). Χαριν — Charin is the adverbial accusative of χαρις — charis which was used as a preposition with the genitive as early as Homer, in favour of, for the sake of. Except in 1 John 3:12 it is post-positive in the N.T. as in ancient Greek. It may be causal (Luke 7:47; 1 John 3:12) or telic (Titus 1:5, Titus 1:11; Judges 1:16). It is probably also telic here, not in order to create transgressions, but rather “to make transgressions palpable” (Ellicott), “thereby pronouncing them to be from that time forward transgressions of the law” (Rendall). Παραβασις — Parabasis from παραβαινω — parabainō is in this sense a late word (Plutarch on), originally a slight deviation, then a wilful disregarding of known regulations or prohibitions as in Romans 2:23. Till the seed should come (αχρις αν ελτηι το σπερμα — achris an elthēi to sperma). Future time with αχρις αν — achris an and aorist subjunctive (usual construction). Christ he means by το σπερμα — to sperma as in Galatians 3:16. The promise hath been made Probably impersonal perfect passive rather than middle of επαγγελλομαι — epaggellomai as in 2 Maccabees 4:27. Ordained through angels (διαταγεις δι αγγελων — diatageis di' aggelōn). Second aorist passive participle of διατασσω — diatassō (see note on Matthew 11:1). About angels and the giving of the law see Deuteronomy 33:2 (lxx); Acts 7:38, Acts 7:52; Hebrews 2:2; Josephus (Ant. XV. 5. 3). By the hand of a mediator Εν χειρι — En cheiri is a manifest Aramaism or Hebraism and only here in the N.T. It is common in the lxx. Μεσιτης — Mesitēs from μεσος — mesos is middle or midst, is a late word (Polybius, Diodorus, Philo, Josephus) and common in the papyri in legal transactions for arbiter, surety, etc. Here of Moses, but also of Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24). [source]
Till the seed should come [αχρις αν ελτηι το σπερμα]
Future time with αχρις αν — achris an and aorist subjunctive (usual construction). Christ he means by το σπερμα — to sperma as in Galatians 3:16. [source]
The promise hath been made [επηγγελται]
Probably impersonal perfect passive rather than middle of επαγγελλομαι — epaggellomai as in 2 Maccabees 4:27. Ordained through angels (διαταγεις δι αγγελων — diatageis di' aggelōn). Second aorist passive participle of διατασσω — diatassō (see note on Matthew 11:1). About angels and the giving of the law see Deuteronomy 33:2 (lxx); Acts 7:38, Acts 7:52; Hebrews 2:2; Josephus (Ant. XV. 5. 3). By the hand of a mediator Εν χειρι — En cheiri is a manifest Aramaism or Hebraism and only here in the N.T. It is common in the lxx. Μεσιτης — Mesitēs from μεσος — mesos is middle or midst, is a late word (Polybius, Diodorus, Philo, Josephus) and common in the papyri in legal transactions for arbiter, surety, etc. Here of Moses, but also of Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24). [source]
Ordained through angels [διαταγεις δι αγγελων]
Second aorist passive participle of διατασσω — diatassō (see note on Matthew 11:1). About angels and the giving of the law see Deuteronomy 33:2 (lxx); Acts 7:38, Acts 7:52; Hebrews 2:2; Josephus (Ant. XV. 5. 3). [source]
By the hand of a mediator [εν χειρι μεσιτου]
Εν χειρι — En cheiri is a manifest Aramaism or Hebraism and only here in the N.T. It is common in the lxx. Μεσιτης — Mesitēs from μεσος — mesos is middle or midst, is a late word (Polybius, Diodorus, Philo, Josephus) and common in the papyri in legal transactions for arbiter, surety, etc. Here of Moses, but also of Christ (1 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24). [source]
Wherefore then serveth the law? [τί οὖν ὁ νόμος]
Lit. what then is the law, or, why then the law? What is its meaning and object? A natural question of an objector, since, according to Paul's reasoning, salvation is of promise and not of law. [source]
It was added [προσετέθη]
Comp. παρεισῆλθεν camein beside, Romans 5:20. Not as an addition to the promise, which is contrary to Galatians 3:18, but as a temporary, intermediate institution, in which only a subordinate purpose of God was expressed. [source]
Because of transgressions [τῶν παραβάσεων χάριν]
In order to set upon already existing sins the stamp of positive transgression of law. Comp. Romans 4:5; Romans 5:13. Note the article, the transgressions, summing them up in one mass. Not, in order to give the knowledge of sins. This, it is true, would follow the revelation of sins as transgressions of law (Romans 3:20; Romans 7:13); but, 1. the phrase because of transgressions does not express that thought with sufficient definiteness. If that had been his meaning, Paul would probably have written τῆς ἀπιγνώσεως τῶν παραβάσεων χάριν onaccount of the knowledge of transgressions. 2. He meant to describe the office of the law as more than giving the knowledge of sins. Its office was, in revealing sin as positive transgression, to emphasize the objective, actual, contrary fact of righteousness according to the divine ideal, and to throw sin into contrast with that grand ideal. [source]
The seed []
Christ, whose advent was to introduce the fulfillment of the promise (Galatians 3:16). [source]
Ordained [διαταγεὶς]
The verb means to arrange, appoint, prescribe. Of appointing the twelve, Matthew 11:1; of enjoining certain acts, Luke 8:55; Luke 17:10; 1 Corinthians 7:17; of the decree of Claudius, Acts 18:2. Here, describing the form or mode in which the law was added; the arrangement made for giving it. [source]
By angels [δἰ ἀγγέλων]
Better, through angels as agents and intermediaries. Comp. εἰς διαταγὰς ἀγγέλων withreference to arrangements of angels; or as it was ordained by angels, Acts 7:53. The tradition of the giving of the law through angels appears first in Deuteronomy 33:2(but comp. lxx and the Hebrew). See Hebrews 2:2; Acts 7:53. In the later rabbinical schools great importance was attached to this tradition, and it was not without influence in shaping the doctrine of angelic mediation which formed one of the elements of the Colossian heresy. Josephus (Ant. 15:5,3) relates that Herod excited the Jews to battle by a speech, in which he said that they had learned the holiest of laws from God through angels. It is a general O.T. idea that in great theophanies God appears surrounded with a heavenly host. See Habakkuk 3:8; Isaiah 66:15; Zechariah 14:5; Joel 3:11. The idea of an angelic administration is also familiar. See Exodus 23:20; Exodus 32:34; Exodus 33:14; Isaiah 63:9; Joshua 5:14. The agency of angels indicates the limitations of the older dispensation; its character as a dispensation of the flesh. [source]
In the hand of a mediator [ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου]
Ἑν χειρὶ bythe agency of. A Hebraism. In this sense, not elsewhere in N.T. See lxx, Genesis 38:20Leviticus 16:21. In the hand of Moses, Leviticus 26:46; Numbers 4:37, Numbers 4:41, Numbers 4:45, Numbers 4:49. Comp. σὺν χειρὶ ἀγγέλου withthe hand of the angel, Acts 7:35. For μεσίτης mediatorsee on 1 Timothy 2:5, and comp. Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24. It is a later Greek word signifying also umpire, arbitrator, and appears in lxx only in Job 9:33. The mediator here is Moses, who is often so designated by rabbinical writers. The object is not (as Meyer) to enable the reader to realize the glory of the law in the dignity and formal solemnity of its ordination, but to indicate the inferior, subordinate position held by the law in comparison with the promise, not the gospel. A glorification of the law cannot be intended, since if that were contemplated in the mention of angels and the mediator, the statement would tend to the disparagement of the promise which was given without a mediator. Paul, in the section Galatians 3:6-9, Galatians 3:7, aims to show that the law does not, as the Judaisers assume, stand in a relation to the divine plan of salvation as direct and positive as does the promise, and that it has not, like the promise and its fulfillment, an eternal significance. On the contrary, it has only a transitory value. This estimate of the law does not contradict Paul's assertions in Romans 7:12-25. In representing the law as subordinate and temporary he does not impugn it as a divine institution. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Galatians 3:19

Acts 7:38 In the church in the wilderness [εν τηι εκκλησιαι εν τηι ερημωι]
Better rendered “congregation” here as in Hebrews 2:12 (Psalm 22:22), the people of Israel gathered at Matthew. Sinai, the whole nation. Moses is here represented as receiving the law from an angel as in Hebrews 2:2; Galatians 3:19 (Deuteronomy 33:2, lxx) and so was a mediator But Exodus does not speak of an angel. [source]
Acts 7:53 By the disposition of angels [εἰς διαταγὰς ἀγγέλων]
Lit., unto ordinances of angels. Εἰς means with reference to. Disposition ( διαταγή ) is used by A. V. in the sense of arrangement, as we say a general disposed his trooPsalms The word occurs only here and Romans 13:2, where it is rendered ordinance. The kindred verb διατάσσω occurs often, and mostly in the sense of command or appoint. See Matthew 11:1; Luke 3:13. In 1 Corinthians 11:34, it is translated set in order. The reference is most probably to the Jewish tradition that the law was given through the agency of angels. See Deuteronomy 33:2. Compare Psalm 68:17. Paul expressly says that the law was administered by the medium of angels (Galatians 3:19). Compare the word spoken by angels (Hebrews 2:2). Render, therefore, as Rev., as it was ordained by angels. [source]
Romans 7:5 In the flesh [ἐν τῇ σαρκί]
Σάρξ fleshoccurs in the classics in the physical sense only. Homer commonly uses it in the plural as denoting all the flesh or muscles of the body. Later the singular occurs in the same sense. Paul's use of this and other psychological terms must be determined largely by the Old-Testament usage as it appears in the Septuagint. 1. In the physical sense. The literal flesh. In the Septuagint τὰ κρέα flesh(plural) is used where the reference is to the parts of animals slain, and αἱ σάρκες , flesh (plural) where the reference is to flesh as the covering of the living body. Hence Paul uses κρέα in Romans 14:21; 1 Corinthians 8:13, of the flesh of sacrificed animals. Compare also the adjective σάρκιμος fleshy 2 Corinthians 3:3; and Ezekiel 11:19; Ezekiel 36:26, Sept. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
2. Kindred. Denoting natural or physical relationship, Romans 1:3; Romans 9:3-8; Romans 11:14; Galatians 4:23, Galatians 4:29; 1 Corinthians 10:18; Philemon 1:16. This usage forms a transition to the following sense: the whole human body. Flesh is the medium in and through which the natural relationship of man manifests itself. Kindred is conceived as based on community of bodily substance. Therefore:-DIVIDER-
3. The body itself. The whole being designated by the part, as being its main substance and characteristic, 1 Corinthians 6:16; 1 Corinthians 7:28; 2 Corinthians 4:11; 2 Corinthians 7:5; 2 Corinthians 10:3; 2 Corinthians 12:7. Romans 2:28; Galatians 6:13, etc. Paul follows the Septuagint in sometimes using σῶμα bodyand sometimes σάρξ fleshin this sense, so that the terms occasionally seem to be practically synonymous. Thus 1 Corinthians 6:16, 1 Corinthians 6:17, where the phrase one body is illustrated and confirmed by one flesh. See Genesis 2:24; Ephesians 5:28, Ephesians 5:31, where the two are apparently interchanged. Compare 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 4:11; 1 Corinthians 5:3, and Colossians 2:5. Σάρξ , however, differs from σῶμα in that it can only signify the organism of an earthly, living being consisting of flesh and bones, and cannot denote “either an earthly organism that is not living, or a living organism that is not earthly” (Wendt, in Dickson). Σῶμα not thus limited. Thus it may denote the organism of the plant (1 Corinthians 15:37, 1 Corinthians 15:38) or the celestial bodies (1 Corinthians 15:40). Hence the two conceptions are related as general and special: σῶμα bodybeing the material organism apart from any definite matter (not from any sort of matter), σάρξ , flesh, the definite, earthly, animal organism. The two are synonymons when σῶμα is used, from the context, of an earthly, animal body. Compare Philemon 1:22; 2 Corinthians 5:1-8. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Σῶμα bodyand not σάρξ fleshis used when the reference is to a metaphorical organism, as the church, Romans 12:4sqq.; 1 Corinthians 10:16; 12:12-27; Ephesians 1:23; Ephesians 2:16; Colossians 1:18, etc. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The σάρξ is described as mortal (2 Corinthians 4:11); subject to infirmity (Galatians 4:13; 2 Corinthians 12:7); locally limited (Colossians 2:15); an object of fostering care (Ephesians 5:29). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
4. Living beings generally, including their mental nature, and with a correlated notion of weakness and perishableness. Thus the phrase πᾶσα σάρξ allflesh (Genesis 6:12; Isaiah 49:26; Isaiah 49:23). This accessory notion of weakness stands in contrast with God. In Paul the phrase all flesh is cited from the Old Testament (Romans 3:20; Galatians 2:16) and is used independently (1 Corinthians 1:29). In all these instances before God is added. So in Galatians 1:16, flesh and blood implies a contrast of human with divine wisdom. Compare 1 Corinthians 15:50; Ephesians 6:12. This leads up to-DIVIDER-
5. Man “either as a creature in his natural state apart from Christ, or the creaturely side or aspect of the man in Christ.” Hence it is correlated with ἄνθρωπος man 1 Corinthians 3:3; Romans 6:19; 2 Corinthians 5:17. Compare Romans 6:6; Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:9; Galatians 5:24. Thus the flesh would seem to be interchangeable with the old man. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
It has affections and lusts (Galatians 5:24); willings (Ephesians 2:3; Romans 8:6, Romans 8:7); a mind (Colossians 2:18); a body (Colossians 2:11). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
It is in sharp contrast with πνεῦμα spirit(Galatians 3:3, Galatians 3:19; Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:17, Galatians 5:19-24; Galatians 6:8; Romans 8:4). The flesh and the spirit are thus antagonistic. Σάρξ fleshbefore or in contrast with his reception of the divine element whereby he becomes a new creature in Christ: the whole being of man as it exists and acts apart from the influence of the Spirit. It properly characterizes, therefore, not merely the lower forms of sensual gratification, but all - the highest developments of the life estranged from God, whether physical, intellectual, or aesthetic. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
It must be carefully noted:-DIVIDER-
1. That Paul does not identify flesh and sin. Compare, flesh of sin, Romans 8:3. See Romans 7:17, Romans 7:18; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Galatians 2:20. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
2. That Paul does not identify σάρξ withthe material body nor associate sin exclusively and predominantly with the body. The flesh is the flesh of the living man animated by the soul ( ψυχή ) as its principle of life, and is distinctly used as coordinate with ἄνθρωπος manAs in the Old Testament, “it embraces in an emphatic manner the nature of man, mental and corporeal, with its internal distinctions.” The spirit as well as the flesh is capable of defilement (2 Corinthians 7:1; compare 1 Corinthians 7:34). Christian life is to be transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2; compare Ephesians 4:23). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
3. That Paul does not identify the material side of man with evil. The flesh is not the native seat and source of sin. It is only its organ, and the seat of sin's manifestation. Matter is not essentially evil. The logical consequence of this would be that no service of God is possible while the material organism remains. See Romans 12:1. The flesh is not necessarily sinful in itself; but as it has existed from the time of the introduction of sin through Adam, it is recognized by Paul as tainted with sin. Jesus appeared in the flesh, and yet was sinless (2 Corinthians 5:21).The motions of sins ( τὰ παθήματα τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν )Motions used in earlier English for emotions or impulses. Thus Bacon: “He that standeth at a stay where others rise, can hardly avoid motions of envy” (“Essay” xiv.). The word is nearly synonymous with πάθος passion(Romans 1:26, note). From πάθειν tosuffer; a feeling which the mind undergoes, a passion, desire. Rev., sinful passions: which led to sins.Did work ( ἐνηργεῖτο )Rev., wrought. See 2 Corinthians 1:6; 2 Corinthians 4:12; Ephesians 3:20; Galatians 5:6; Philemon 2:13; Colossians 1:29. Compare Mark 6:14, and see on power, John 1:12. [source]

Romans 2:23 Transgression [παραβάσεως]
Trench remarks upon “the mournfully numerous group of words” which express the different aspects of sin. It is ἁμαρτια themissing of a mark; παράβασις theoverpassing of a line; παρακοή thedisobedience to a voice; παράπτωμα afalling when one should have stood; ἀγνόημα ignoranceof what one should know; ἥττημα adiminishing of what should be rendered in full measure; ἀνομία or παρανομία non-observanceof law; πλημμέλεια discord. The primary sense of the preposition παρά is beside or by, with reference to a line or extended surface. Hence it indicates that which is not on its true line but beside it, either in the way of falling short or of going beyond. Thus, in the sense of going beyond, Romans 12:3, to think more highly than he ought ( παρ ' ὃ δεῖ ), where the sense of beyond is fixed by ὑπερφρονεῖν to think beyond or over.” So Luke 13:2. In the sense of falling short, Thucydides, 3,49: “Mitylene came near such peril” ( παρὰ τοσοῦτο κινδύνου ), as if parallel to the danger but not touching it. Hence παραβάσις differs from the Homeric ὑπερβασία transgressionin that the latter carries only the idea of going beyond or over. A mark or line as a standard is thus implied. Transgression implies something to transgress. With the law came in the possibility off transgressing the law. “Where there is no law there is no transgression” (Romans 4:15). Hence Adam's sin is called a transgression (Romans 5:14), because it was the violation of a definite command. Paul habitually uses the word and its kindred παραβάτης transgressorof the transgression of a commandment distinctly given (Galatians 3:19; 1 Timothy 2:14, Romans 2:25, Romans 2:27). Hence it is peculiarly appropriate here of one who boasts in the law. It thus differs from ἁμαρτία sin(see on sins, Matthew 1:21), in that one may sin without being under express law. See Romans 5. Sin ( ἁμαρτία ) was in the world until the law; i.e. during the period prior to the law. Death reigned from Adam to Moses over those who had not sinned ( ἁμαρτήσαντας ) after the similitude of Adam's transgression ( παραβάσεως ). The sin is implicit, the transgression explicit. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

Romans 3:20 By the works of the law [επιγνωσις αμαρτιας]
“Out of works of law.” Mosaic law and any law as the source of being set right with God. Paul quotes Psalm 43:2 as he did in Galatians 2:16 to prove his point. The knowledge of sin (epignōsis hamartias). The effect of law universally is rebellion to it (1 Corinthians 15:56). Paul has shown this carefully in Galatians 3:19-22. Cf. Hebrews 10:3. He has now proven the guilt of both Gentile and Jew. [source]
Romans 3:20 The knowledge of sin [epignōsis hamartias)]
The effect of law universally is rebellion to it (1 Corinthians 15:56). Paul has shown this carefully in Galatians 3:19-22. Cf. Hebrews 10:3. He has now proven the guilt of both Gentile and Jew. [source]
Romans 5:20 That the trespass might abound [ινα πλεονασηι το παραπτωμα]
It is usual to explain ινα — hina here as final, as God‘s ultimate purpose. So Denney who refers to Galatians 3:19.; Romans 7:7. But Chrysostom explains ινα — hina here as εκβασις — ekbasis (result). This is a proper use of ινα — hina in the Koiné{[28928]}š as we have seen. If we take it so here, the meaning is “so that the trespass abounded” (aorist active subjunctive of πλεονασω — pleonasō late verb, see note on 2 Thessalonians 1:3; 2 Corinthians 8:15). This was the actual effect of the Mosaic law for the Jews, the necessary result of all prohibitions. Did abound more exceedingly (υπερεπερισσευσεν — hupereperisseusen). First aorist active indicative of υπερπερισσευω — huperperisseuō Late verb, in N.T. only here and 2 Corinthians 7:4 which see. A strong word. If πλεοναζω — pleonazō is comparative (πλεον — pleon) περισσευω — perisseuō is superlative (Lightfoot) and then υπερπερισσευω — huperperisseuō goes the superlative one better. See υπερπλεοναζω — huperpleonazō in 1 Timothy 1:14. The flood of grace surpassed the flood of sin, great as that was (and is). [source]
1 Corinthians 11:34 Will I set in order [διατάξομαι]
Referring to outward, practical arrangements. See on Matthew 11:1, and compare 1 Corinthians 9:14; 1 Corinthians 16:1; Galatians 3:19. [source]
Colossians 2:15 Having spoiled principalities and powers [ἀπεκδυσάμενος τὰς ἀρχὰς καὶ τὰς ἐξουσίας]
For the verb spoiled, see on putting off, Colossians 2:11. The principalities and powers are the angelic hosts through whose ministry the law was given. See Deuteronomy 33:2; Acts 7:53; Hebrews 2:2; Galatians 3:19. Great importance was attached, in the later rabbinical schools, to the angels who assisted in giving the law; and that fact was not without influence in shaping the doctrine of angelic mediators, one of the elements of the Colossian heresy, which was partly Judaic. This doctrine Paul strikes at in Colossians 1:16; Colossians 2:10; here, and Colossians 2:18. God put off from himself, when the bond of the law was rendered void in Christ's crucifixion, that ministry of angels which waited on the giving of the law, revealing Christ as the sole mediator, the head of every principality and power (Colossians 2:10). The directness of the gospel ministration, as contrasted with the indirectness of the legal ministration, is touched upon by Paul in Galatians 3:19sqq.; 2 Corinthians 3:12sqq.; Hebrews 2:2. [source]
1 Timothy 2:5 Mediator [μεσίτης]
See on Galatians 3:19. The word twice in Paul, Galatians 3:29, Galatians 3:20, once of Moses and once generally. In Hebrews always of Christ; Hebrews 8:6; Hebrews 9:15, Hebrews 12:24. This is the only instance in the pastorals. As the one God, so the one mediator implies the extension of the saving purpose to all. [source]
1 Timothy 2:10 Professing [ἐπαγγελλομέναις]
In the sense of professing only in the Pastorals. In Titus 1:2, and everywhere else in N.T. it means promise. See Acts 7:5; Romans 4:21; Galatians 3:19, etc. [source]
Hebrews 9:15 Mediator of the new testament [διαθήκης καινῆς μεσίτης]
For the new testament rend. a new covenant. See on next verse. For μεσίτης mediatorsee on Galatians 3:19, Galatians 3:20. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 He is the mediator of a better covenant [κρείττονός ἐστιν διαθήκης μεσίτης]
For μεσίτης mediatorsee on Galatians 3:19. Both here and in the following chapter, the ideas of the sanctuary and the covenant are closely united. God's covenant was embodied in the sanctuary. The ark was “the ark of the covenant”; the tables of the law were “the tables of the covenant.” The essence of a covenant is the establishment of a relationship. The sanctuary was the meeting-place of God and man. The ritual of sacrifice adjusted the sinner's relation to a holy God. All the furniture and all the ordinances of the tabernacle assumed the covenant between God and his people. Thus the two ideas belong together. The minister of the Levitical sanctuary was the mediator of the old covenant. A new covenant implies a new ministry, a better covenant implies a better ministry. Christ's priesthood implies a sanctuary. The new sanctuary implies a new covenant. This covenant is a better covenant because it [source]
Hebrews 2:2 The word spoken by angels [ὁ δι ἀγγέλλων λαληθεὶς λόγος]
The Mosaic legislation which was conveyed through the mediation of angels. Comp. Deuteronomy 33:2; Acts 7:38, Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19, on which see note. The agency of angels indicates the limitations of the legal dispensation; its character as a dispensation of the flesh. Hence its importance in this discussion. The abolition of the old limitations is the emancipation of man from subordination to the angels. The O.T. is made to furnish proof that such subordination is inconsistent with man's ultimate destiny to sovereignty over all creation. [source]
Hebrews 12:23 To the general assembly [πανηγύρει]
Const. with ἀγγέλων ofangels, with comma after angels. Rend. “to a festal assembly of angels.” This and the next clause show what the myriads consist of, - a host of angels and redeemed men. Πανήγυρις , N.T.ois a gathering to celebrate a solemnity, as public games, etc.: a public, festal assembly. Frequently joined with ἑορτή feast. See Ezekiel 47:11; Hosea 2:11; Hosea 9:5. The verb πανηγυρίζειν tocelebrate or attend a public festival, to keep holiday, occurs occasionally in Class.: not in N.T.: lxx once, Isaiah 66:10. The festal assembly of angels maintains the contrast between the old and the new dispensation. The host of angels through whose ministration the law was given (see on Hebrews 2:2, and see on Galatians 3:19) officiated at a scene of terror. Christian believers are now introduced to a festal host, surrounding the exalted Son of man, who has purged away sins, and is enthroned at God's right hand (Hebrews 1:3). [source]
Hebrews 2:2 For if … proved steadfast [ει γαρ εγενετο βεβαιος]
Condition of first class, assumed as true. Through angels Allusion to the use of angels by God at Sinai as in Acts 7:38, Acts 7:53; Galatians 3:19, though not in the O.T., but in Josephus (Ant. XV. 156). Transgression and disobedience Both words use παραρυωμεν — para as in παραβασις — pararuōmen refused to obey (stepping aside, παρακοη — para -μισταποδοσιαν — basis as in Romans 2:23), neglect to obey Late double compound, like μιστοδοσια — misthapodotēs (Hebrews 11:6), from ενδικον — misthos (reward) and apodidōmi to give back. The old Greeks used misthodosia Just Old compound adjective, in N.T. only here and Romans 3:8. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 But now [νυν δε]
Logical use of νυν — nun as the case now stands, with Jesus as high priest in heaven. Hath he obtained Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 Hath he obtained [τετυχεν]
Perfect active indicative of τυγχανω — tugchanō with the genitive, a rare and late form for τετευχεν — teteuchen (also τετευχηκεν — teteuchēken), old verb to hit the mark, to attain. A ministry the more excellent “A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 A ministry the more excellent [διαπορωτερας λειτουργιας]
“A more excellent ministry.” For the comparative of διαπορος — diaphoros see Hebrews 1:4. This remark applies to all the five points of superiority over the Levitical priesthood. By how much Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 By how much [οσωι]
Instrumental case of the relative οσος — hosos between two comparative adjectives as in Hebrews 1:4. The mediator Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
Hebrews 8:6 The mediator [μεσιτης]
Late word from μεσος — mesos (amid) and so a middle man (arbitrator). Already in Galatians 3:19. and see 1 Timothy 2:5. See Hebrews 9:15; Hebrews 12:24 for further use with διατηκη — diathēkē Of a better covenant Called “new” For νενομοτετηται — diathēkē see Matthew 26:28; Luke 1:72; Galatians 3:17, etc. This idea he will discuss in Hebrews 8:7-13. Hath been enacted (νομοτετεω — nenomothetētai). Perfect passive indicative of επι κρειττοσιν επαγγελιαις — nomotheteō as in Hebrews 7:11 which see. Upon better promises (επι — epi kreittosin epaggeliais). Upon the basis of (κρεισσων — epi). But how “better” if the earlier were also from God? This idea, alluded to in Hebrews 6:12-17, Will be developed in 10:19-12:3 with great passion and power. Thus it is seen that “better” (kreissōn) is the keynote of the Epistle. At every point Christianity is better than Judaism. [source]
1 John 3:12 Wherefore [χάριν τίνος]
Lit., on account of what. Χάριν forthe sake of, on account of, is elsewhere placed after the genitive. See Ephesians 3:1, Ephesians 3:14; 1 Timothy 5:14; Galatians 3:19. [source]
Jude 1:9 Concerning the body of Moses [περι του Μωυσεως σωματος]
Some refer this to Zechariah 3:1, others to a rabbinical comment on Deuteronomy 34:6. There is a similar reference to traditions in Acts 7:22; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2; 2 Timothy 3:8. But this explanation hardly meets the facts. [source]
Jude 1:9 Contending with the devil [τωι διαβολωι διακρινομενος]
Present middle participle of διακρινω — diakrinō to separate, to strive with as in Acts 11:2. Dative case διαβολωι — diabolōi he disputed Imperfect middle of διαλεγομαι — dialegomai as in Mark 9:34.Concerning the body of Moses (περι του Μωυσεως σωματος — peri tou Mōuseōs sōmatos). Some refer this to Zechariah 3:1, others to a rabbinical comment on Deuteronomy 34:6. There is a similar reference to traditions in Acts 7:22; Galatians 3:19; Hebrews 2:2; 2 Timothy 3:8. But this explanation hardly meets the facts.Durst not bring “Did not dare (first aorist active indicative of τολμαω — tolmaō), to bring against him” (second aorist active infinitive of επιπερω — epipherō).A railing accusation (κρισιν βλασπημιας — krisin blasphēmias). “Charge of blasphemy” where 2 Peter 2:11 has “βλασπημον κρισιν — blasphēmon krisin Peter also has παρα κυριωι — para kuriōi (with the Lord), not in Jude.The Lord rebuke thee First aorist active optative of επιτιμαω — epitimaō a wish about the future. These words occur in Zechariah 3:1-10 where the angel of the Lord replies to the charges of Satan. Clement of Alex. (Adumb. in Ep. Judae) says that Jude quoted here the Assumption of Moses, one of the apocryphal books. Origen says the same thing. Mayor thinks that the author of the Assumption of Moses took these words from Zechariah and put them in the mouth of the Archangel Michael. There is a Latin version of the Assumption. Some date it as early as b.c. 2, others after a.d. 44. [source]

What do the individual words in Galatians 3:19 mean?

Why then the Law - Transgressions on account of it was added until that should have come the seed to whom promise has been made having been ordained through angels in [the] hand of a mediator
Τί οὖν νόμος τῶν παραβάσεων χάριν προσετέθη ἄχρις οὗ ἔλθῃ τὸ σπέρμα ἐπήγγελται διαταγεὶς δι’ ἀγγέλων ἐν χειρὶ μεσίτου

Τί  Why 
Parse: Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun, Accusative Neuter Singular
Root: τίς  
Sense: who, which, what.
νόμος  Law 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: νόμος  
Sense: anything established, anything received by usage, a custom, a law, a command.
τῶν  - 
Parse: Article, Genitive Feminine Plural
Root:  
Sense: this, that, these, etc.
παραβάσεων  Transgressions 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Plural
Root: παράβασις  
Sense: a going over.
χάριν  on  account  of 
Parse: Preposition
Root: χάριν  
Sense: in favour of, for the pleasure of.
προσετέθη  it  was  added 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: προστίθημι  
Sense: to put to.
ἄχρις  until 
Parse: Preposition
Root: ἄχρι  
Sense: until, unto, etc.
οὗ  that 
Parse: Personal / Relative Pronoun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: ὅς 
Sense: who, which, what, that.
ἔλθῃ  should  have  come 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Subjunctive Active, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἔρχομαι  
Sense: to come.
σπέρμα  seed 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Neuter Singular
Root: σπέρμα  
Sense: from which a plant germinates.
  to  whom 
Parse: Personal / Relative Pronoun, Dative Neuter Singular
Root: ὅς 
Sense: who, which, what, that.
ἐπήγγελται  promise  has  been  made 
Parse: Verb, Perfect Indicative Middle or Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: ἐπαγγέλλομαι  
Sense: to announce that one is about to do or furnish something.
διαταγεὶς  having  been  ordained 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Participle Passive, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: διατάσσω  
Sense: to arrange, appoint, ordain, prescribe, give order.
δι’  through 
Parse: Preposition
Root: διά  
Sense: through.
ἀγγέλων  angels 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Plural
Root: ἄγγελος  
Sense: a messenger, envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God.
χειρὶ  [the]  hand 
Parse: Noun, Dative Feminine Singular
Root: χείρ  
Sense: by the help or agency of any one, by means of any one.
μεσίτου  of  a  mediator 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Masculine Singular
Root: μεσίτης  
Sense: one who intervenes between two, either in order to make or restore peace and friendship, or form a compact, or for ratifying a covenant.