By
TextsWhat is the meaning of By in the Bible?
The King James Version translates the dative emauto in 1 Corinthians 4:4 as 'against,' a usage preserved in dialectal English, whereas classical Greek sunoida with the dative signifies being conscious or cognizant of something.
TEXTUAL SIGNIFICANCE
Understanding this linguistic distinction clarifies the original meaning of the text, revealing that the author emphasizes personal awareness of one's own conscience rather than external accusation.
Bible Study Quick-Reference Guide
Manuscript & Literary Context: Notice how By functions as an authoritative historical witness connecting earlier prophetic promises with scripture's broader fulfillment.
Bible Study Reflection Prompts:
- Why did the biblical author mention By in this passage?
- What cultural or historical assumption does By clarify?
Scripture Passages Mentioned:
1 Corinthians 4:4
Source Attribution
Built upon the 1915 International Standard Bible Encyclopedia and Easton's Bible Dictionary (1897). Entries have been modernized, checked for academic truthfulness, and shortened for clarity.
How to Cite This Entry
"By." Ancient Context Dictionary. Accessed 2026. https://ancientcontext.com/context/by/