Luk 9:39 | RWP | e4.org | Suddenly ( εξεφνης ). Old adverb, but in the N.T. only in Luke's writings save . Used by medical writers of sudden attacks of disease like epilepsy. It teareth him that he foameth ( σπαρασσε αυτον μετα αφρου ). Literally, "It tears him with (accompanied with, μετα ) foam" (old word, αφρος , only here in the N.T.). From σπαρασσω , to convulse, a common verb, but in the N.T. only here and ; (and συνσπαρασσω , ). See ; ; for variations in the symptoms in each Gospel. The use of μετα αφρου is a medical item. Hardly ( μολις ). Late word used in place of μογις , the old Greek term (in some MSS. here) and alone in Luke's writings in the N.T. save ; . Bruising him sorely ( συντριβον αυτον ). Common verb for rubbing together, crushing together like chains ( ) or as a vase ( ). See on Matthew and Mark for discussion of details here.

‏ Luke 9:39

Suddenly ( εξεφνης ). Old adverb, but in the N.T. only in Luke's writings save Mr 13:36. Used by medical writers of sudden attacks of disease like epilepsy.

It teareth him that he foameth ( σπαρασσε αυτον μετα αφρου ). Literally, "It tears him with (accompanied with, μετα ) foam" (old word, αφρος, only here in the N.T.). From σπαρασσω, to convulse, a common verb, but in the N.T. only here and Mr 1:26; 9:26 (and συνσπαρασσω, Mr 9:20). See Mr 9:17; Mt 17:15; Lu 9:39 for variations in the symptoms in each Gospel. The use of μετα αφρου is a medical item.

Hardly ( μολις ). Late word used in place of μογις, the old Greek term (in some MSS. here) and alone in Luke's writings in the N.T. save 1Pe 4:18; Ro 5:7.

Bruising him sorely ( συντριβον αυτον ). Common verb for rubbing together, crushing together like chains (Mr 5:4) or as a vase (Mr 14:3). See on Matthew and Mark for discussion of details here.