The Meaning of Mark 9:3 Explained

Mark 9:3

KJV: And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them.

YLT: and his garments became glittering, white exceedingly, as snow, so as a fuller upon the earth is not able to whiten them.

Darby: and his garments became shining, exceeding white as snow, such as fuller on earth could not whiten them.

ASV: and his garments became glistering, exceeding white, so as no fuller on earth can whiten them.

What is the context of Mark 9:3?

KJV Reverse Interlinear

And  his  raiment  became  shining,  exceeding  white  as  snow;  so as  no  fuller  on  earth  can  white  them. 

What does Mark 9:3 Mean?

Context Summary

Mark 9:2-29 - Rapture And Service
The Apostles had been gladdened by the promise of the coming Kingdom. The transfiguring light that shone from our Lord's face differed from the shining of Moses' face. With Moses the light was from without, and faded; but with Christ the light shone from within. Surely at that moment He might have stepped back into heaven by the open door, through which the representatives of the Law and the prophets had come; but He turned His back on the joy of the Father's home, and set His face to endure the cross, that He might become, not the example only, but the Redeemer of men. What a contrast between that scene on Hermon's slopes, where the glory of Jesus was brighter than the glistening snows about Him, and that below, where the demoniac child writhed in pain! Raphael does well to group these two incidents in one picture, for we are shown here that the duty of the Church is not to build tabernacles on the mount of vision, but to take her way into the haunts of crime and misery and cope with the power of Satan. Faith is the channel through which the divine power passes. Its quantity is of less importance than its quality. It may be minute as a mustard seed, but, like it, must contain the principle of life. [source]

Chapter Summary: Mark 9

1  Jesus is transfigured
11  He instructs his disciples concerning the coming of Elijah;
14  casts forth a deaf and mute spirit;
30  foretells his death and resurrection;
33  exhorts his disciples to humility;
38  bidding them not to prohibit such as are not against them,
42  nor to give offense to any of the faithful

Greek Commentary for Mark 9:3

Glistering, exceeding white [στιλβοντα λευκα λιαν]
Old words, all of them. Matthew 17:2 has white as the light (λευκα ως το πως — leuka hōs to phōs), Luke 9:29 “white and dazzling” (λευκος εχαστραπτων — leukos exastraptōn) like lightning. [source]
So as no fuller on earth can whiten them [οια γναπευς επι της γης ου δυναται ουτως λευκαναι]
Γναπω — Gnaphō is an old word to card wool. Note ουτως — houtōs so, so white. Some manuscripts in Matthew add ως χιων — hōs chiōn as snow. Probably the snow-capped summit of Hermon was visible on this very night. See note on Matthew 17:2 for “transfigured.” [source]
Shining [οτίλβοντα]
Rev., glistering. The word is used of a gleam from polished surfaces - arms, sleek horses, water in motion, the twinkling of the stars, lightning.As no fuller, etcPeculiar to Mark. [source]
As no fuller, etc []
Peculiar to Mark. [source]

Reverse Greek Commentary Search for Mark 9:3

Matthew 15:19 Thoughts [διαλογισμοὶ]
Lit., reasonings (compare Mark 9:33, Rev.), or disputings (Philemon 2:14), like the captious questioning of the Pharisees about washing hands. [source]
Matthew 18:1 Who then is greatest [τις αρα μειζων εστιν]
The αρα — ara seems to point back to the tax-collection incident when Jesus had claimed exemption for them all as “sons” of the Father. But it was not a new dispute, for jealousy had been growing in their hearts. The wonderful words of Jesus to Peter on Mount Hermon (Matthew 16:17-19) had evidently made Peter feel a fresh sense of leadership on the basis of which he had dared even to rebuke Jesus for speaking of his death (Matthew 16:22). And then Peter was one of the three (James and John also) taken with the Master up on the Mount of Transfiguration. Peter on that occasion had spoken up promptly. And just now the tax-collectors had singled out Peter as the one who seemed to represent the group. Mark (Mark 9:33) represents Jesus as asking them about their dispute on the way into the house, perhaps just after their question in Matthew 18:1. Jesus had noticed the wrangling. It will break out again and again (Matthew 20:20-28; Luke 22:24). Plainly the primacy of Peter was not yet admitted by the others. The use of the comparative μειζων — meizōn (so ο μειζων — ho meizōn in Matthew 18:4) rather than the superlative μεγιστος — megistos is quite in accord with the Koiné idiom where the comparative is displacing the superlative (Robertson, Grammar, pp. 667ff.). But it is a sad discovery to find the disciples chiefly concerned about their own places (offices) in the political kingdom which they were expecting. [source]
Matthew 18:2 Called to him [προσκαλεσαμενος]
Indirect middle voice aorist participle. It may even be Peter‘s “little child” (παιδιον — paidion) as it was probably in Peter‘s house (Mark 9:33). [source]
Mark 10:43 Minister []
See on Mark 9:35. [source]
Mark 10:16 Took them in his arms []
See on Mark 9:36. [source]
Mark 10:16 He took them in his arms [εναγκαλισαμενος]
A distinct rebuke to the protest of the over-particular disciples. This word already in Mark 9:36. In Luke 2:28 we have the full idiom, to receive into the arms So with tender fondling Jesus repeatedly blessed It was a great moment for each mother and child. [source]
Mark 10:32 And began to tell them the things that were to happen to him [ηρχατο αυτοις λεγειν τα μελλοντα αυτωι συμβαινειν]
He had done it before three times already (Mark 8:31; Mark 9:13; Mark 9:31). So Jesus tries once more. They had failed utterly heretofore. How is it now? Luke adds (Luke 18:34): “They understood none of these things.” But Mark and Matthew show how the minds of two of the disciples were wholly occupied with plans of their own selfish ambition while Jesus was giving details of his approaching death and resurrection. [source]
Mark 16:10 Went [πορευτεισα]
First aorist passive participle. Common word for going, but in Mark so far only in Mark 9:30 in the uncompounded form. Here also in Mark 16:12, Mark 16:15.Them that had been with him (τοις μετ αυτου γενομενοις — tois met' autou genomenois). This phrase for the disciples occurs here alone in Mark and the other Gospels if the disciples (ματηται — mathētai) are meant. All these items suggest another hand than Mark for this closing portion.As they mourned and wept Present active participles in dative plural agreeing with τοις γενομενοις — tois ̇̇̇ genomenois and describing the pathos of the disciples in their utter bereavement and woe. [source]
Mark 10:32 And he took again the twelve [και παραλαβων τους δωδεκα]
Matthew has “apart” from the crowds and that is what Mark also means. Note παραλαβων — paralabōn taking to his side.And began to tell them the things that were to happen to him (ηρχατο αυτοις λεγειν τα μελλοντα αυτωι συμβαινειν — ērxato autois legein ta mellonta autōi sumbainein). He had done it before three times already (Mark 8:31; Mark 9:13; Mark 9:31). So Jesus tries once more. They had failed utterly heretofore. How is it now? Luke adds (Luke 18:34): “They understood none of these things.” But Mark and Matthew show how the minds of two of the disciples were wholly occupied with plans of their own selfish ambition while Jesus was giving details of his approaching death and resurrection. [source]
Mark 9:33 What were ye reasoning in the way? [Timothyen tēi hodōi dielogiszethe̱)]
Imperfect tense. They had been disputing (Mark 9:34), not about the coming death of the Master, but about the relative rank of each of them in the political kingdom which they were expecting him to establish. Jesus had suspected the truth about them and they had apparently kept it up in the house. See note on Matthew 18:1 where the disciples are represented as bringing the dispute to Jesus while here Jesus asks them about it. Probably they asked Jesus first and then he pushed the matter further and deeper to see if this had not been the occasion of the somewhat heated discussion on the way in. [source]
Mark 9:38 Because he followed not us [hoti ouk ēkolouthei hēmin)]
Note vivid imperfect tense again. John evidently thought to change the subject from the constraint and embarrassment caused by their dispute. So he told about a case of extra zeal on his part expecting praise from Jesus. Perhaps what Jesus had just said in Mark 9:37 raised a doubt in John‘s mind as to the propriety of his excessive narrowness. One needs to know the difference between loyalty to Jesus and stickling over one‘s own narrow prejudices. [source]
Luke 9:29 White [λευκὸς]
In classical Greek very indefinite as an expression of color; being used, not only of the whiteness of the snow, but of gray dust. Its original sense is clear. All three evangelists use the word, but combined with different terms. Thus, Matthew, as the light. Mark, στίλβοντα , glistering (see on Mark 9:3). Luke, ἐξαστράπτων (only here in New Testament), flashing as with the brilliance of lightning. Rev., dazzling. [source]
Luke 9:28 His countenance was altered [εγενετο το ειδος του προσωπου αυτου ετερον]
Literally, “the appearance of his face became different.” Matthew 17:2 says that “his face did shine as the sun.” Luke does not use the word “transfigured” Literally, And his raiment white radiant. There is no and between “white” and “dazzling.” The participle εχαστραπτων — exastraptōn is from the compound verb meaning to flash The simple verb is common for lightning flashes and bolts, but the compound in the lxx and here alone in the N.T. See note on Mark 9:3 “exceeding white” and the note on Matthew 17:2 “white as the light.” [source]
Luke 9:28 And his raiment white radiant []
. There is no and between “white” and “dazzling.” The participle εχαστραπτων — exastraptōn is from the compound verb meaning to flash The simple verb is common for lightning flashes and bolts, but the compound in the lxx and here alone in the N.T. See note on Mark 9:3 “exceeding white” and the note on Matthew 17:2 “white as the light.” [source]
Luke 9:28 and []
between “white” and “dazzling.” The participle εχαστραπτων — exastraptōn is from the compound verb meaning to flash The simple verb is common for lightning flashes and bolts, but the compound in the lxx and here alone in the N.T. See note on Mark 9:3 “exceeding white” and the note on Matthew 17:2 “white as the light.” [source]
Luke 9:43 At the majesty of God [epi tēi megaleiotēti tou theou)]
A late word from the adjective megaleios and that from megas (great). In the N.T. only here and Acts 19:27 of Artemis and in 2 Peter 1:16 of the Transfiguration. It came to be used by the emperors like our word “Majesty.”Which he did (hois epoiei). This is one of the numerous poor verse divisions. This sentence has nothing to do with the first part of the verse. The imperfect active epoiei covers a good deal not told by Luke (See Mark 9:30 = Matthew 17:22). Note the attraction of the relative hois into the case of pāsin its antecedent. [source]
Luke 9:43 Which he did [hois epoiei)]
This is one of the numerous poor verse divisions. This sentence has nothing to do with the first part of the verse. The imperfect active epoiei covers a good deal not told by Luke (See Mark 9:30 = Matthew 17:22). Note the attraction of the relative hois into the case of pāsin its antecedent. [source]
Luke 9:44 Sink into your ears [Τεστε υμεις εις τα ωτα υμων]
Second aorist imperative middle of τιτημι — tithēmi common verb. “Do you (note emphatic position) yourselves (whatever others do) put into your ears.” No word like “sink” here. The same prediction here as in Mark 9:31 = Matthew 17:22 about the Son of man only without mention of death and resurrection as there. See note on Mark 9:31 for discussion. [source]
Luke 9:45 That they should not perceive it [ινα μη αιστωνται αυτο]
Second aorist middle subjunctive of the common verb αιστανομαι — aisthanomai used with ινα μη — hina mē negative purpose. This explanation at least relieves the disciples to some extent of full responsibility for their ignorance about the death of Jesus as Mark 9:32 observes, as does Luke here that they were afraid to ask him. Plummer says, “They were not allowed to understand the saying then, in order that they might remember it afterwards, and see that Jesus had met His sufferings with full knowledge and free will.” Perhaps also, if they had fully understood, they might have lacked courage to hold on to the end. But it is a hard problem. [source]
Luke 9:46 A reasoning [διαλογισμος]
A dispute. The word is from διαλογιζομαι — dialogizomai the verb used in Mark 9:33 about this incident. In Luke this dispute follows immediately after the words of Jesus about his death. They were afraid to ask Jesus about that subject, but Matthew 18:1 states that they came to Jesus to settle it. [source]
Luke 9:47 Took a little child [επιλαβομενος παιδιον]
Second aorist middle participle of the common verb επιλαμβανω — epilambanō Strictly, Taking a little child to himself (indirect middle). Mark 9:36 has merely the active λαβων — labōn of the simple verb λαμβανω — lambanō Set him by his side “In his arms” Mark 9:36 has it, “in the midst of them” Matthew 18:3 says. All three attitudes following one another (the disciples probably in a circle around Jesus anyhow) and now the little child (Peter‘s child?) was slipped down by the side of Jesus as he gave the disciples an object lesson in humility which they sorely needed. [source]
Luke 9:28 Into the mountain [εις το ορος]
Probably Mount Hermon because we know that Jesus was near Caesarea Philippi when Peter made the confession (Mark 8:27; Matthew 16:13). Hermon is still the glory of Palestine from whose heights one can view the whole of the land. It was a fit place for the Transfiguration.To pray (προσευχασται — proseuxasthai). Peculiar to Luke who so often mentions Christ‘s habit of prayer (cf. Luke 3:21). See also Luke 9:29 “as he was praying” (εν τωι προσευχεσται — en tōi proseuchesthai one of Luke‘s favourite idioms).His countenance was altered Literally, “the appearance of his face became different.” Matthew 17:2 says that “his face did shine as the sun.” Luke does not use the word “transfigured” Literally, And his raiment white radiant. There is no and between “white” and “dazzling.” The participle εχαστραπτων — exastraptōn is from the compound verb meaning to flash The simple verb is common for lightning flashes and bolts, but the compound in the lxx and here alone in the N.T. See note on Mark 9:3 “exceeding white” and the note on Matthew 17:2 “white as the light.” [source]
Luke 9:49 Master [επιστατα]
Only in Luke in the N.T. as already four times (Luke 5:5; Luke 8:24, Luke 8:45; Luke 9:33).We forbade him (εκωλυομεν αυτον — ekōluomen auton). Conative imperfect as in Mark 9:38, We tried to hinder him.Because he followeth not with us Present tense preserved for vividness where Mark has imperfect μετ ημων — e4kolouthei Note also here “with us” (ημιν — meth' hēmōn) where Mark has associative instrumental hēmin It is a pitiful specimen of partisan narrowness and pride even in the Beloved Disciple, one of the Sons of Thunder. The man was doing the Master‘s work in the Master‘s name and with the Master‘s power, but did not run with the group of the Twelve. [source]
Luke 9:49 We forbade him [εκωλυομεν αυτον]
Conative imperfect as in Mark 9:38, We tried to hinder him. [source]
Luke 9:50 “Against you is for you” [κατ μων υπερ μων]
Mark 9:40 has “against us is for us” The Koiné Greek ē and μη κωλυετε μη — ū were often pronounced alike and it was easy to interchange them. So many MSS. here read just as in Mark. The point is precisely the same as it is a proverbial saying. See a similar saying in Luke 11:23: “He that is not with me is against me.” The prohibition here as in Mark 9:39 is general: “Stop hindering him” The lesson of toleration in methods of work for Christ is needed today. [source]
John 4:51 Servants [δοῦλοι]
Properly, bond-servants. See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. [source]
John 3:34 God giveth []
The best texts omit God. Rev., He giveth. Rev., also, rightly, omits the italicized to Him. The personal object of the verb giveth is indefinite. Render, He giveth not the Spirit by measure. In order to convey the full force of the terms giveth and by measure, it will be necessary to attempt an explanation of the general scope and meaning of this very difficult and much disputed passage. The starting point of the exposition must be John 3:30, the Baptist's noble resignation of his own position, and claims to Jesus: He must increase, but I must decrease. At this point the Evangelist, as we have seen, takes up the discourse. The Baptist's declaration that Jesus “must increase” - that He is a messenger of a transcendently higher character, and with a far larger and more significant message than his own - furnishes the Evangelist with a text. He will show why Jesus “must increase.” He must increase because He comes from above, and is therefore supreme over all (John 3:31). This statement he repeats; defining from above ( ἄνωθεν ) by out of heaven ( ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ), and emphasizing it by contrast with mere earthly witness ( ὁ ἐκ τῆς γῆς ) whose words bear the stamp of his earthly origin ( ἐκ τῆς γῆς λαλεῖ ). Being from heaven, He testifies of heavenly things, as an eye-and ear-witness. “What He hath seen and heard, of that he beareth witness.” It is indeed true that men reject this testimony. “No man receiveth His witness” (John 3:32). None the less it is worthy of implicit credence as the testimony of God himself. He that has received that testimony has solemnly attested it as God's own witness; “hath set his seal to this, that God is true.” To declare Jesus' testimony untrue is to declare God untrue (John 3:33). For He whom God hath sent utters the whole divine mess age (the words of God, John 3:34). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Thus far the reasoning is directed to the conclusion that Jesus ought to increase, and that His message ought to be received. He is God's own messenger out of heaven, and speaks God's own words. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The common explanation of the succeeding clause is that God bestows the Spirit upon Jesus in His fullness, “not by measure.”-DIVIDER-
But this is to repeat what has already been more than implied. It would seem to be superfluous to say of one who comes out of heaven, who is supreme over all things, who bears witness of heavenly things which He has seen and heard, and who reveals the whole message of God to men - that God bestows upon Him the Spirit without measure. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Take up, then, the chain of thought from the first clause of John 3:34, and follow it on another line. The Messenger of God speaks the words of God, and thus shows himself worthy of credence, and shows this further, by dispensing the gift of the Spirit in full measure to His disciples. “He giveth not the Spirit by measure.” This interpretation adds a new link to the chain of thought; a new reason why Jesus should increase, and His testimony be received; the reason, namely, that not only is He himself divinely endowed with the Spirit, but that He proves it by dispensing the Spirit in full measure. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Thus John 3:35follows in natural sequence. This dispensing power which attests His claims, is His through the gift of the divine Father's love. “The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.” This latter phrase, into His hand, signifies not only possession, but the power of disposal. See Mark 9:31; Mark 14:41; Luke 23:46; Hebrews 10:31. God has given the Son all things to administer according to His own pleasure and rule. These two ideas of Christ's reception and bestowment of divine gifts are combined in Matthew 11:27. “All things are delivered unto me of my Father; and no man knoweth the Son but the Father, neither knoweth any man the Father save the Son, and He to whomsoever the Son may determine ( βούληται ) to reveal Him.”-DIVIDER-
Therefore John the Baptist must decrease, and Jesus must increase. A measure of the Spirit was given to the Baptist, sufficient for his preparatory work, but the Baptist himself saw the Spirit descending in a bodily form upon the Son of God, and heard the voice from heaven, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” The Spirit is thus Christ's own. He dispenses, gives it ( δίδωσιν ), in its fullness. Hence Jesus said, later, of the Spirit of truth, “He shall glorify Me, for He shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine; therefore said I that He shall take of mine and shall show it unto you” (John 16:14, John 16:15). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
[source]

John 2:5 Unto the servants [διακόνοις]
See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. [source]
John 12:26 Serve [διακονῇ]
See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35; see on 1 Peter 1:12. [source]
John 1:29 On the morrow [τηι επαυριον]
Locative case with ημηραι — hēmērāi (day) understood after the adverb επαυριον — epaurion “Second day of this spiritual diary” (Bernard) from John 1:19. Seeth Jesus coming Dramatic historical present indicative Graphic picture. Behold the Lamb of God Exclamation ιδε — ide like ιδου — idou not verb, and so nominative αμνος — amnos Common idiom in John (John 1:36; John 3:26, etc.). For “the Lamb of God” see 1 Corinthians 5:7 (cf. John 19:36) and 1 Peter 1:19. The passage in Isaiah 53:6. is directly applied to Christ by Philip in Acts 8:32. See also Matthew 8:17; 1 Peter 2:22.; Hebrews 9:28. But the Jews did not look for a suffering Messiah (John 12:34) nor did the disciples at first (Mark 9:32; Luke 24:21). But was it not possible for John, the Forerunner of the Messiah, to have a prophetic insight concerning the Messiah as the Paschal Lamb, already in Isaiah 53:1-12, even if the rabbis did not see it there? Symeon had it dimly (Luke 2:35), but John more clearly. So Westcott rightly. Bernard is unwilling to believe that John the Baptist had more insight on this point than current Judaism. Then why and how did he recognize Jesus as Messiah at all? Certainly the Baptist did not have to be as ignorant as the rabbis. Which taketh away the sin of the world Note singular αμαρτιαν — hamartian not plural αμαρτιας — hamartias (1 John 3:5) where same verb αιρω — airō to bear away, is used. The future work of the Lamb of God here described in present tense as in 1 John 1:7 about the blood of Christ. He is the Lamb of God for the world, not just for Jews. [source]
Acts 19:9 Speaking evil of the Way [κακολογουντες την οδον]
Late verb from κακολογος — kakologos (speaker of evil) for the old κακως λεγω — kakōs legō Already in Mark 7:10; Mark 9:39; Matthew 15:4. Now these Jews are aggressive opponents of Paul and seek to injure his influence with the crowd. Note “the Way” as in Acts 9:2 for Christianity. [source]
Acts 19:9 Disobedient [επειτουν]
Imperfect again, showing the growing disbelief and disobedience Late verb from κακολογος — kakologos (speaker of evil) for the old κακως λεγω — kakōs legō Already in Mark 7:10; Mark 9:39; Matthew 15:4. Now these Jews are aggressive opponents of Paul and seek to injure his influence with the crowd. Note “the Way” as in Acts 9:2 for Christianity. He departed from them Second aorist active participle of απιστημι — aphistēmi made an “apostasy” (standing off, cleavage) as he did at Corinth (Acts 18:7, μεταβας — metabas making a change). Separated the disciples (απωρισεν τους ματητας — aphōrisen tous mathētas). First aorist active indicative of αποριζω — aphorizō old verb to mark limits (horizon) as already in Acts 13:2. Paul himself was a spiritual Pharisee “separated” to Christ (Romans 1:1). The Jews regarded this withdrawal as apostasy, like separating the sheep from the goats (Matthew 25:32). Paul now made a separate church as he had done at Thessalonica and Corinth. In the school of Tyrannus Σχολη — Scholē (our school) is an old word from σχειν — schein (εχω — echō) to hold on, leisure and then in later Greek (Plutarch, etc.) a place where there is leisure as here. Only this example in the N.T. This is the Greek notion of “school,” the Jewish being that of “yoke” as in Matthew 11:29. The name Tyrannus (our tyrant) is a common one. It is an inscription in the Columbarium of the Empress Livia as that of a physician in the court. Furneaux suggests the possibility that a relative of this physician was lecturing on medicine in Ephesus and so as a friend of Luke, the physician, would be glad to help Paul about a place to preach. It was probably a public building or lecture hall with this name whether hired by Paul or loaned to him. The pagan sophists often spoke in such halls. The Codex Bezae adds “from the fifth hour to the tenth” as the time allotted Paul for his work in this hall, which is quite possible, from just before midday till the close of the afternoon (from before the noon meal till two hours before sunset) each day. Here Paul had great freedom and a great hearing. As the church grows there will be other places of meeting as the church in the house of Aquila and Priscilla (1 Corinthians 16:19). [source]
1 Corinthians 4:9 Last [ἐσχάτους]
As in Mark 9:35, of relative rank and condition: as having in men's eyes the basest lot of all. [source]
1 Corinthians 3:4 But ministers []
Omit but, and place the interrogations after Paul and Apollos, respectively, as Rev. For ministers see on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. Servants, not heads of parties. [source]
Galatians 4:7 Servant [δοῦλος]
Bondservant. See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35; see on Romans 1:1. [source]
Colossians 1:7 Minister [διάκονος]
See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. [source]
1 Thessalonians 3:2 Minister [διάκονον]
See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. Not in the official sense of deacon which occurs only in the Pastorals. Διάκονος ministerand διακονία ministryor service are common expressions of service to Christ or to men. Paul habitually uses them in this way. See Acts 1:25; Acts 6:4. Διάκονοι is used of ministers of Satan, 2 Corinthians 11:15, and διάκονος of the civil magistrate, Romans 13:4. See Introduction to the Pastoral Epistles. [source]
Hebrews 12:5 Speaketh unto you [ὑμῖν διαλέγεται]
The verb always in the sense of mutual converse or discussion. See Mark 9:34; Acts 17:2; Acts 18:19. Rend. “reasoneth with you.” [source]
Hebrews 5:2 Who can bear gently [μετριοπατειν δυναμενος]
Present active infinitive of the late verb μετριοπατεω — metriopatheō It is a philosophical term used by Aristotle to oppose the απατεια — apatheia (lack of feeling) of the Stoics. Philo ranks it below απατεια — apatheia Josephus (Ant. XII. 32) uses it of the moderation of Vespasian and Titus towards the Jews. It occurs here only in the N.T. “If the priest is cordially to plead with God for the sinner, he must bridle his natural disgust at the loathsomeness of sensuality, his impatience at the frequently recurring fall, his hopeless alienation from the hypocrite and the superficial, his indignation at any confession he hears from the penitent” (Dods). With the ignorant Dative case of the articular present active participle of αγνοεω — agnoeō old verb not to know (Mark 9:32). And erring Present middle participle (dative case) of πλαναω — planaō The one article with both participles probably makes it a hendiadys, sins of ignorance (both accidence and sudden passion) as opposed to high-handed sins of presumption and deliberate purpose. People who sinned “willingly” Present passive indicative of the old verb περικειμαι — perikeimai here used transitively as in Acts 28:20 The priest himself has weakness lying around him like a chain. Not so Jesus. [source]
1 Peter 1:12 Did minister [διηκόνουν]
Imperfect tense, were ministering. See on Mark 9:35. The term is applicable to any kind of service, official or not. Compare 2 Corinthians 3:3. [source]
1 Peter 3:21 After a true likeness [αντιτυπον]
Water in baptism now as an anti-type of Noah‘s deliverance by water. For βαπτισμα — baptisma see note on Matthew 3:7. For αντιτυπον — antitupon see note on Hebrews 9:24 (only other N.T. example) where the word is used of the earthly tabernacle corresponding Simplex verb (σωζω — sōzō not the compound διασωζω — diasōzō). The saving by baptism which Peter here mentions is only symbolic (a metaphor or picture as in Romans 6:2-6), not actual as Peter hastens to explain.Not the putting away of the filth of the flesh Αποτεσις — Apothesis is old word from αποτιτημι — apotithēmi (1 Peter 2:1), in N.T. only here and 2 Peter 1:14. υπου — Rupou (genitive of ρυπος — rupos) is old word (cf. ρυπαρος — ruparos filthy, in James 2:2; Revelation 22:11), here only in N.T. (cf. Isaiah 3:3; Isaiah 4:4). Baptism, Peter explains, does not wash away the filth of the flesh either in a literal sense, as a bath for the body, or in a metaphorical sense of the filth of the soul. No ceremonies really affect the conscience (Hebrews 9:13.). Peter here expressly denies baptismal remission of sin.But the interrogation of a good conscience toward God (αλλα συνειδησεως αγατης επερωτημα εις τεον — alla suneidēseōs agathēs eperōtēma eis theon). Old word from επερωταω — eperōtaō (to question as in Mark 9:32; Matthew 16:1), here only in N.T. In ancient Greek it never means answer, but only inquiry. The inscriptions of the age of the Antonines use it of the Senate‘s approval after inquiry. That may be the sense here, that is, avowal of consecration to God after inquiry, having repented and turned to God and now making this public proclamation of that fact by means of baptism (the symbol of the previous inward change of heart). Thus taken, it matters little whether εις τεον — eis theon (toward God) be taken with επερωτημα — eperōtēma or συνειδησεως — suneidēseōs the resurrection of Jesus Christ (δι αναστασεως Ιησου Χριστου — di' anastaseōs Iēsou Christou). For baptism is a symbolic picture of the resurrection of Christ as well as of our own spiritual renewal (Romans 6:2-6). See 1 Peter 1:3 for regeneration made possible by the resurrection of Jesus. [source]
1 Peter 3:21 Not the putting away of the filth of the flesh [ου σαρκος αποτεσις ρυπου]
Αποτεσις — Apothesis is old word from αποτιτημι — apotithēmi (1 Peter 2:1), in N.T. only here and 2 Peter 1:14. υπου — Rupou (genitive of ρυπος — rupos) is old word (cf. ρυπαρος — ruparos filthy, in James 2:2; Revelation 22:11), here only in N.T. (cf. Isaiah 3:3; Isaiah 4:4). Baptism, Peter explains, does not wash away the filth of the flesh either in a literal sense, as a bath for the body, or in a metaphorical sense of the filth of the soul. No ceremonies really affect the conscience (Hebrews 9:13.). Peter here expressly denies baptismal remission of sin.But the interrogation of a good conscience toward God (αλλα συνειδησεως αγατης επερωτημα εις τεον — alla suneidēseōs agathēs eperōtēma eis theon). Old word from επερωταω — eperōtaō (to question as in Mark 9:32; Matthew 16:1), here only in N.T. In ancient Greek it never means answer, but only inquiry. The inscriptions of the age of the Antonines use it of the Senate‘s approval after inquiry. That may be the sense here, that is, avowal of consecration to God after inquiry, having repented and turned to God and now making this public proclamation of that fact by means of baptism (the symbol of the previous inward change of heart). Thus taken, it matters little whether εις τεον — eis theon (toward God) be taken with επερωτημα — eperōtēma or συνειδησεως — suneidēseōs the resurrection of Jesus Christ (δι αναστασεως Ιησου Χριστου — di' anastaseōs Iēsou Christou). For baptism is a symbolic picture of the resurrection of Christ as well as of our own spiritual renewal (Romans 6:2-6). See 1 Peter 1:3 for regeneration made possible by the resurrection of Jesus. [source]
1 Peter 3:21 But the interrogation of a good conscience toward God [αλλα συνειδησεως αγατης επερωτημα εις τεον]
Old word from επερωταω — eperōtaō (to question as in Mark 9:32; Matthew 16:1), here only in N.T. In ancient Greek it never means answer, but only inquiry. The inscriptions of the age of the Antonines use it of the Senate‘s approval after inquiry. That may be the sense here, that is, avowal of consecration to God after inquiry, having repented and turned to God and now making this public proclamation of that fact by means of baptism (the symbol of the previous inward change of heart). Thus taken, it matters little whether εις τεον — eis theon (toward God) be taken with επερωτημα — eperōtēma or συνειδησεως — suneidēseōs the resurrection of Jesus Christ For baptism is a symbolic picture of the resurrection of Christ as well as of our own spiritual renewal (Romans 6:2-6). See 1 Peter 1:3 for regeneration made possible by the resurrection of Jesus. [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]
Revelation 7:14 Made them white []
Compare Isaiah 1:18; Psalm 51:7; Mark 9:3. Milligan remarks that robes are the expression of character, and compares the word habit used of dress. [source]
Revelation 1:1 Servants [δούλοις]
Properly, bond-servants. See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35. [source]
Revelation 1:1 The Revelation [ἀποκάλυψις]
The Greek word is transcribed in Apocalypse. The word occurs only once in the Gospels, Luke 2:32, where to lighten should be rendered for revelation. It is used there of our Lord, as a light to dispel the darkness under which the heathen were veiled. It occurs thirteen times in Paul's writings, and three times in first Peter. It is used in the following senses: (a.) The unveiling of something hidden, which gives light and knowledge to those who behold it. See Luke 2:32(above). Christianity itself is the revelation of a mystery (Romans 16:25). The participation of the Gentiles in the privileges of the new covenant was made known by revelation (Ephesians 3:3). Paul received the Gospel which he preached by revelation (Galatians 1:12), and went up to Jerusalem by revelation (Galatians 2:2). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(b.) Christian insight into spiritual truth. Paul asks for Christians the spirit of revelation (Ephesians 1:17). Peculiar manifestations of the general gift of revelation are given in Christian assemblies (1 Corinthians 14:6, 1 Corinthians 14:26). Special revelations are granted to Paul (2 Corinthians 12:1, 2 Corinthians 12:7). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(c.) The second coming of the Lord (1 Peter 1:7, 1 Peter 1:13; 2 Thessalonians 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:7) in which His glory shall be revealed (1 Peter 4:13), His righteous judgment made known (Romans 2:5), and His children revealed in full majesty (Romans 8:19). -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The kindred verb ἀποκαλύπτω is used in similar connections. Following the categories given above,-DIVIDER-
(a.) Galatians 1:16; Galatians 3:23; Ephesians 3:5; 1 Peter 1:12. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(b.) Matthew 11:25, Matthew 11:27; Matthew 16:17; Luke 10:21, Luke 10:22; 1 Corinthians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 14:30; Philemon 3:15. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
(c.) Matthew 10:26; Luke 2:35; Luke 12:2; Luke 17:30; Romans 1:17, Romans 1:18; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 3:13; 2 Thessalonians 2:3, 2 Thessalonians 2:6, 2 Thessalonians 2:8; 1 Peter 1:5; 1 Peter 5:1. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The word is compounded with ἀπό fromand καλύπτω tocover. Hence, to remove the cover from anything; to unveil. So of Balaam, the Lord opened or unveiled his eyes ( ἀπεκάλυψεν τοὺς ὀφθαλμοὺς : Numbers 22:31, Sept.). So Boaz to Naomi's kinsman: “I thought to advertise thee:” Rev., “disclose it unto thee” ( ἀποκαλύψω τὸ οὖς σου : Rth 4:4 , Sept.). Lit., I will uncover thine ear. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The noun ἀποκάλυψις revelationoccurs only once in the Septuagint (1 Samuel 20:30), in the physical sense of uncovering. The verb is found in the Septuagint in Daniel 2:19, Daniel 2:22, Daniel 2:28. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
In classical Greek, the verb is used by Herodotus (i., 119) of uncovering the head; and by Plato: thus, “reveal ( ἀποκαλύψας ) to me the power of Rhetoric” (“Gorgias,” 460): “Uncover your chest and back” (“Protagoras,” 352). Both the verb and the noun occur in Plutarch; the latter of uncovering the body, of waters, and of an error. The religious sense, however, is unknown to heathenism. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The following words should be compared with this: Ὀπτασία avision (Luke 1:22; Acts 26:19; 2 Corinthians 12:1). Ὅραμα avision (Matthew 17:9; Acts 9:10; Acts 16:9). Ὅρασις avision (Acts 2:17; Revelation 9:17. Of visible form, Revelation 4:3). These three cannot be accurately distinguished. They all denote the thing seen or shown, without anything to show whether it is understood or not. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
As distinguished from these, ἀποκάλυψις includes, along with the thing shown or seen, its interpretation or unveiling. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Ἐπιφάνεια appearing(hence our epiphany ), is used in profane Greek of the appearance of a higher power in order to aid men. In the New Testament by Paul only, and always of the second appearing of Christ in glory, except in 2 Timothy 1:10, where it signifies His first appearing in the flesh. See 2 Thessalonians 2:8; 1 Timothy 6:14; Titus 2:13. As distinguished from this, ἀπολάλυψις is the more comprehensive word. An apocalypse may include several ἐπιφάνειαι appearingsThe appearings are the media of the revealings. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Φανέρωσις manifestationonly twice in the New Testament; 1 Corinthians 12:7; 2 Corinthians 4:2. The kindred verb φανερόω tomake manifest, is of frequent occurrence. See on John 21:1. It is not easy, if possible, to show that this word has a less dignified sense than ἀποκάλυψις . The verb φανερόω is used of both the first and the second appearing of our Lord (1 Timothy 3:16; 1 John 1:2; 1 Peter 1:20; Colossians 3:4; 1 Peter 5:4). See also John 2:11; John 21:1. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
Some distinguish between φανέρωσις as an external manifestation, to the senses, but single and isolated; while ἀποκάλυψις is an inward and abiding disclosure. According to these, the Apocalypse or unveiling, precedes and produces the φανέρωσις or manifestation. The Apocalypse contemplates the thing revealed; the manifestation, the persons to whom it is revealed. -DIVIDER-
-DIVIDER-
The Revelation here is the unveiling of the divine mysteries.Of Jesus ChristNot the manifestation or disclosure of Jesus Christ, but the revelation given by Him.To shew ( δεῖξαι )Frequent in Revelation (Revelation 4:1; Revelation 17:1; Revelation 21:9; Revelation 22:1). Construe with ἔδωκεν gavegave him to shew. Compare “I will give him to sit” (Revelation 3:21): “It was given to hurt” (Revelation 7:2): “It was given him to do;” (A.V. “had power to do;” Revelation 13:14).Servants ( δούλοις )Properly, bond-servants. See on Matthew 20:26; see on Mark 9:35.Must ( δεῖ )As the decree of the absolute and infallible God.Shortly come to pass ( γενέσθαι ἐν τάχει )For the phrase ἐν τάχει shortlysee Luke 18:8, where yet long delay is implied. Expressions like this must be understood, not according to human measurement of time, but rather as in 2 Peter 3:8. The idea is, before long, as time is computed by God. The aorist infinitive γενέσθαι is not begin to come to pass, but denotes a complete fulfilment: must shortly come to pass in their entirety. He sent ( ἀποστείλας )See on Matthew 10:2, Matthew 10:16.Signified ( ἐσήμανεν )From σῆμα asign. Hence, literally, give a sign or token. The verb occurs outside of John's writings only in Acts 11:28; Acts 25:27. See John 12:33; John 18:32; John 21:19. This is its only occurrence in Revelation. The word is appropriate to the symbolic character of the revelation, and so in John 12:33, where Christ predicts the mode of His death in a figure. Compare sign, Revelation 12:1.Angel ( ἀγγέλου )Strictly, a messenger. See Matthew 11:10; Luke 8:24; Luke 9:52. Compare the mediating angel in the visions of Daniel and Zechariah (Daniel 8:15, Daniel 8:16; Daniel 9:21; Daniel 10:10; Zechariah 1:19). See on John 1:51.ServantDesignating the prophetic office. See Isaiah 59:5; Amos 3:7; compare Revelation 19:10; Revelation 22:9.JohnJohn does not name himself in the Gospel or in the Epistles. Here “we are dealing with prophecy, and prophecy requires the guarantee of the individual who is inspired to utter it” (Milligan). Compare Daniel 8:1; Daniel 9:2. [source]

Revelation 7:14 My lord [Κυριε μου]
“An address of reverence to a heavenly being” (Vincent), not an act of worship on John‘s part.Thou knowest (συ οιδας — su oidas). “At once a confession of ignorance, and an appeal for information” (Swete), not of full confidence like συ οιδας — su oidas in John 21:15.They which come out of the great tribulation Present middle participle with the idea of continued repetition. “The martyrs are still arriving from the scene of the great tribulation” (Charles). Apparently some great crisis is contemplated (Matthew 13:19.; Matthew 24:21; Mark 13:10), though the whole series may be in mind and so may anticipate final judgment.And they washed (και επλυναν — kai eplunan). First aorist active indicative of πλυνω — plunō old verb, to wash, in N.T. only Luke 5:2; Revelation 7:14; Revelation 22:14. This change of construction after οι ερχομενοι — hoi erchomenoi from οι πλυνησαντες — hoi plunēsantes to και επλυναν — kai eplunan is common in the Apocalypse, one of Charles‘s Hebraisms, like και εποιησεν — kai epoiēsen in Revelation 1:6 and και πλαναι — kai planāi in Revelation 2:20.Made them white First aorist active indicative of λευκαινω — leukainō to whiten, old verb from λευκος — leukos (Revelation 7:13), in N.T. only here and Mark 9:3. “Milligan remarks that robes are the expression of character and compares the word habit used of dress” (Vincent). The language here comes partly from Genesis 49:11 and partly from Exodus 19:10, Exodus 19:14. For the cleansing power of Christ‘s blood see also Romans 3:25; Romans 5:9; Colossians 1:20: Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:2; Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Revelation 5:9; Revelation 22:14. “The aorists look back to the life on earth when the cleansing was effected” (Swete). See Philemon 2:12. for both divine and human aspects of salvation.In the blood of the Lamb (εν τωι αιματι του αρνιου — en tōi haimati tou arniou). There is power alone in the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin (1 John 1:7), not in the blood of the martyrs themselves. The result is “white,” not “red,” as one might imagine. [source]
Revelation 7:14 They which come out of the great tribulation [οι ερχομενοι εκ της τλιπσεως της μεγαλης]
Present middle participle with the idea of continued repetition. “The martyrs are still arriving from the scene of the great tribulation” (Charles). Apparently some great crisis is contemplated (Matthew 13:19.; Matthew 24:21; Mark 13:10), though the whole series may be in mind and so may anticipate final judgment.And they washed (και επλυναν — kai eplunan). First aorist active indicative of πλυνω — plunō old verb, to wash, in N.T. only Luke 5:2; Revelation 7:14; Revelation 22:14. This change of construction after οι ερχομενοι — hoi erchomenoi from οι πλυνησαντες — hoi plunēsantes to και επλυναν — kai eplunan is common in the Apocalypse, one of Charles‘s Hebraisms, like και εποιησεν — kai epoiēsen in Revelation 1:6 and και πλαναι — kai planāi in Revelation 2:20.Made them white First aorist active indicative of λευκαινω — leukainō to whiten, old verb from λευκος — leukos (Revelation 7:13), in N.T. only here and Mark 9:3. “Milligan remarks that robes are the expression of character and compares the word habit used of dress” (Vincent). The language here comes partly from Genesis 49:11 and partly from Exodus 19:10, Exodus 19:14. For the cleansing power of Christ‘s blood see also Romans 3:25; Romans 5:9; Colossians 1:20: Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:2; Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Revelation 5:9; Revelation 22:14. “The aorists look back to the life on earth when the cleansing was effected” (Swete). See Philemon 2:12. for both divine and human aspects of salvation.In the blood of the Lamb (εν τωι αιματι του αρνιου — en tōi haimati tou arniou). There is power alone in the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin (1 John 1:7), not in the blood of the martyrs themselves. The result is “white,” not “red,” as one might imagine. [source]
Revelation 7:14 Made them white [ελευκαναν]
First aorist active indicative of λευκαινω — leukainō to whiten, old verb from λευκος — leukos (Revelation 7:13), in N.T. only here and Mark 9:3. “Milligan remarks that robes are the expression of character and compares the word habit used of dress” (Vincent). The language here comes partly from Genesis 49:11 and partly from Exodus 19:10, Exodus 19:14. For the cleansing power of Christ‘s blood see also Romans 3:25; Romans 5:9; Colossians 1:20: Ephesians 1:7; 1 Peter 1:2; Hebrews 9:14; 1 John 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Revelation 5:9; Revelation 22:14. “The aorists look back to the life on earth when the cleansing was effected” (Swete). See Philemon 2:12. for both divine and human aspects of salvation.In the blood of the Lamb (εν τωι αιματι του αρνιου — en tōi haimati tou arniou). There is power alone in the blood of Christ to cleanse from sin (1 John 1:7), not in the blood of the martyrs themselves. The result is “white,” not “red,” as one might imagine. [source]

What do the individual words in Mark 9:3 mean?

and the garments of Him became shining white exceedingly such as a launderer on the earth not is able thus to whiten
καὶ τὰ ἱμάτια αὐτοῦ ἐγένετο στίλβοντα λευκὰ λίαν οἷα γναφεὺς ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς οὐ δύναται οὕτως λευκᾶναι

ἱμάτια  garments 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: ἱμάτιον  
Sense: a garment (of any sort).
αὐτοῦ  of  Him 
Parse: Personal / Possessive Pronoun, Genitive Masculine 3rd Person Singular
Root: αὐτός  
Sense: himself, herself, themselves, itself.
ἐγένετο  became 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Indicative Middle, 3rd Person Singular
Root: γίνομαι  
Sense: to become, i.
στίλβοντα  shining 
Parse: Verb, Present Participle Active, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: στίλβω  
Sense: to shine, glisten.
λευκὰ  white 
Parse: Adjective, Nominative Neuter Plural
Root: λευκός  
Sense: light, bright, brilliant.
λίαν  exceedingly 
Parse: Adverb
Root: λίαν  
Sense: greatly, exceedingly, exceedingly beyond measure.
οἷα  such  as 
Parse: Personal / Relative Pronoun, Accusative Neuter Plural
Root: οἷος  
Sense: what sort of, what manner of, such as.
γναφεὺς  a  launderer 
Parse: Noun, Nominative Masculine Singular
Root: γναφεύς  
Sense: a fuller.
γῆς  earth 
Parse: Noun, Genitive Feminine Singular
Root: γῆ  
Sense: arable land.
δύναται  is  able 
Parse: Verb, Present Indicative Middle or Passive, 3rd Person Singular
Root: δύναμαι  
Sense: to be able, have power whether by virtue of one’s own ability and resources, or of a state of mind, or through favourable circumstances, or by permission of law or custom.
οὕτως  thus 
Parse: Adverb
Root: οὕτως  
Sense: in this manner, thus, so.
λευκᾶναι  to  whiten 
Parse: Verb, Aorist Infinitive Active
Root: λευκαίνω  
Sense: to whiten, make white.