2 Corinthians 6:9

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2 Corinthians 6:9 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

as unknown, yet well-known; dying, and yet we live on; punished, yet not killed;

King James Version KJV

As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

American Standard Version ASV

as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

Bible in Basic English BBE

Unnoted, but still kept fully in mind; as near to death, but still living; as undergoing punishment, but not put to death;

Free Bible Version FBV

We are disregarded, even though we are well-known; given up for dead, but we're still alive; lashed, but not killed.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

As vnknowen, and yet knowen: as dying, and beholde, we liue: as chastened, and yet not killed:

Young's Literal Translation YLT

as unknown, and recognized; as dying, and lo, we live; as chastened, and not put to death;

World English Bible WEB

as unknown and yet well known, as dying and behold—we live, as punished and not killed,

Noah Webster Bible WBS

As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

As dying, and behold we live; as chastised, and not killed;

Translation for Translators T4T

Some people know well that we are true servants of God, and yet others, who know us, refuse to believe that. People have often tried to kill us (inc), yet we are still alive. We have often been beaten, but we have not been killed {People have often beaten us (exc), but they have not killed us}.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Corinthians 6:9

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Word Study

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2 Corinthians 6:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK ως αγνοουμενοι και επιγινωσκομενοι ως αποθνησκοντες και ιδου ζωμεν ως παιδευομενοι και μη θανατουμενοι

ως hōs G5613 as/when Adv

αγνοουμενοι agnoeō G50 be ignorant Verb-PPP-NPM

και kai G2532 and Conj

επιγινωσκομενοι epiginōskō G1921 to come to know Verb-PPP-NPM

ως hōs G5613 as/when Adv

αποθνησκοντες apothnēskō G599 to die Verb-PAP-NPM

και kai G2532 and Conj

ιδου horaō G3708 to see: see Verb-2AMM-2S

ζωμεν zaō G2198 to live Verb-PAI-1P

ως hōs G5613 as/when Adv

παιδευομενοι paideuō G3811 to instruct Verb-PPP-NPM

και kai G2532 and Conj

μη mē G3361 not Particle-N

θανατουμενοι thanatoō G2289 to kill Verb-PPP-NPM

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — 2 Corinthians 6:9

ως hōs G5613 "as/when" Adv

This word means as or when, showing a comparison or timing. It's used in many verses, like Mark 4:26 and 1 Corinthians 3:15, to show how things are done. It helps explain how or when something happens.

Definition: ὡς, adverbial form of the relative pron. ὅς, ἥ, ὅ. __I. As relat. adv. of manner, as, like as, just as, even as; __1. with a demonstrative, like οὕτως, expressed or understood: οὕτως . . . ὡς, Mrk.4:26, 1Co.3:15, Eph.5:28, Jas.2:12, al.; ὡς . . . οὕτως, Act.8:32, 1Co.7:17, al.; elliptically (sc. οὕτως, οὕτω), with nom., Mat.6:29, al.; with accusative, Mat.19:19, Mrk.12:31, al.; with prep., Mat.26:55, Mrk.14:48, Luk.22:52, Jhn.7:10, al.; with verb., Jhn.15:6, 2Co.3:1, Eph.2:3, 1Th.5:6, al.; with ptcp. (the ptcp. however not having the special force wh. it has in cl.; see Bl., §73, 5; 74, 6), Mat.7:29, Mrk.1:22, Heb.13:17, al.; freq implying opinion or belief, Rom.9:32; so esp, with genitive absol., 1Co.4:18, 2Co.5:20, 1Pe.4:12, 2Pe.1:3. __2. Before numerals, about, nearly: Mrk.5:13, Jhn.1:40, Act.5:7, al. __3. Before adjectives and adverbs, how: Rom.10:15 11:33, 1Th.2:10; with superl., ὡς τάχιστα, as quickly as possible, Act.17:15. __II. As conjunction; __1. temporal, __(a) as, when, since: Mrk.9:21 14:72, Luk.1:23, Jhn.2:9, al.; __(b) while, when, as long as: Luk.12:58, Jhn.12:36, Gal.6:10 (Field, Notes, 191); ὡς ἄν (M, Pr., 167, and see: ἄν), Rom.15:24, 1Co.11:34, Php.2:23. __2. Final, in order that; with inf., in order to (M, Pr., 204n), Luk.9:52, Act.20:24, Heb.7:9. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 436 NT verses. KJV: about, after (that), (according) as (it had been, it were), as soon (as), even as (like), for, how (greatly), like (as, unto), since, so (that), that, to wit, unto, when(-soever), while, X with all speed See also: 1 Corinthians 3:1; 2 Timothy 1:3; 1 Peter 1:14.

αγνοουμενοι agnoeō G50 "be ignorant" Verb-PPP-NPM

To be ignorant means lacking information or intelligence, as described in 1 Timothy 1:13 and Acts 13:27 and Romans 10:3.

Definition: ἀγνοέω, -ῶ (> ἁγνίζω), [in LXX for שָׁגָה, שָׁגַג, אָשַׁם, etc. ;] __1. to be ignorant, not to know: absol., Ι Ti 1:13, Heb.5:2; with accusative, Act.13:27 17:23, Rom.10:3, 2Co.2:11; ἐν οἷς, 2Pe.2:12; before ὅτι, Rom.2:4 6:3 7:1, 1Co.14:38; οὐ θέλω ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν, a Pauline phrase: with accusative, Rom.11:25; before ὑπέρ, 2Co.1:8; περί, 1Co.12:1, 1Th.4:13. ὅτι, Rom.1:13, 1Co.10:1 (for similar usage in π., V. MM, VGT, see word). Pass.: 1Co.14:38, 2Co.6:9, Gal.1:22. __2. not to understand: with accusative, Mrk.9:32, Luk.9:45. † (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 21 NT verses. KJV: (be) ignorant(-ly), not know, not understand, unknown See also: 1 Corinthians 10:1; Acts 17:23; Hebrews 5:2.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Definition: καί, conj., and __I. Copulative. __1. Connecting single words; __(a) in general: Mat.2:18, 16:1, Mrk.2:15, Luk.8:15, Heb.1:1, al. mult.; repeated before each of the terms in a series, Mat.23:23, Luk.14:21, Rom.7:12, 9:4, al. __(b) connecting numerals (WM, §37, 4): Jhn.2:20, Act.13:20; __(with) joining terms which are not mutually exclusive, as the part with the whole: Mat.8:33, 26:59, Mrk.16:17, Act.5:29, al. __2. Connecting clauses and sentences: Mat.3:12, Act.5:21, al. mult.; esp. __(a) where, after the simplicity of the popular language, sentences are paratactically joined (WM, §60, 3; M, Pr., 12; Deiss., LAE, 128ff.): Mat.1:21, 7:25, Mrk.9:5, Jhn.10:3, al.; __(b) joining affirmative to negative sentences: Luk.3:14, Jhn.4:11, IIIJhn.10; __(with) consecutive, and so: Mat.5:1, 23:32, Heb.3:19, al.; after imperatives, Mat.4:19, Luk.7:7, al.; __(d) = καίτοι, and yet: Mat.3:14, 6:26, Mrk.12:12, Luk.18:7 (Field, Notes, 72), 1Co.5:2, al.; __(e) beginning an apodosis (= Heb. וְ; so sometimes δέ in cl.), then: Luk.2:21, 7:12, Act.1:10; beginning a question (WM, §53, 3a): Mrk.10:26, Luk.10:29, Jhn.9:36. __3. Epexegetic, and, and indeed, namely (WM, §53, 3c): Luk.3:18, Jhn.1:16, Act.23:6, Rom.1:5, 1Co.3:5, al. __4. In transition: Mat.4:23, Mrk.5:1, 21, Jhn.1:19, al.; so, Hebraistically, καὶ ἐγένετο (וַי:הִי; also ἐγένετο δέ), Mrk.1:9 (cf. Luk.5:1; V. Burton, §§357-60; M, Pr., 14, 16). __5. καὶ . . . καί, both . . . and (for τε . . . καί, see: τε); __(a) connecting single words: Mat.10:28, Mrk.4:41, Rom.11:33, al.; __(b) clauses and sentences: Mrk.9:13, Jhn.7:28, 1Co.1:22, al. __II. Adjunctive, also, even, still: Mat.5:39, 40; Mrk.2:28, al. mult.; esp. with pron., adv., etc., Mat.20:4, Jhn.7:47, al; ὡς κ., Act.11:17; καθὼς κ., Rom.15:7; οὑτω κ., Rom.6:11; διὸ κ., Luk.1:35; ὁ κ. (Deiss., BS, 313ff.), Act.13:9; pleonastically, μετὰ κ.. (Bl., §77, 7; Deiss., BS, 265f,), Php.4:3; τί κ., 1 Co 15:29; ἀλλὰ κ., Luk.14:22, Jhn.5:18, al.; καίγε (M, Pr., 230; Burton, §437), Act.17:27; καίπερ, Heb.5:8; κ. ἐάν, see: ἐάν. ἐάν, contr. fr. εἰ ἄν, conditional particle, representing something as "under certain circumstances actual or liable to happen," but not so definitely expected as in the case of εἰ with ind. (Bl., §65, 4; cf. Jhn.13:17, 1Co.7:36), if haply, if; __1. with subjc. (cl.); __(a) pres.: Mat.6:22, Luk.10:6, Jhn.7:17, Rom.2:25, 26 al.; { __(b) aor. (= Lat. fut. pf.): Mat.4:9 16:26 (cf. ptcp. in Luk.9:25; M, Pr., 230), Mrk.3:24, Luk.14:34, Jhn.5:43, Rom.7:2, al.; = cl. εἰ, with opt., Jhn.9:22 11:57, Act.9:2; as Heb. אִם = ὅταν, Jhn.12:32 14:3, I Jhn.2:28 3:2, Heb.3:7" (LXX) . __2. C. indic, (as in late writers, fr. Arist. on; see WH, App., 171; VD, MGr. 2, App., §77; Deiss., BS, 201f., LAE, 155, 254; M, Pr., 168, 187; Bl., §65, 4); __(a) fut.: Mat.18:19 T, Luk.19:40, Act.7:7; __(b) pres.: 1Th.3:8 (see Milligan, in l.). __3. With other particles: ἐ. καί (Bl., §65, 6), Gal.6:1; ἐ. μή (M, Pr., 185, 187; Bl., l.with), with subjc. pres., Mat.10:13, 1Co.8:8, Jas.2:17, 1Jn.3:21; aor., Mat.6:15, Mrk.3:27, Jhn.3:3, Rom.10:15, Gal.1:8 2:16 (see Lft., Ellic., in ll.); ἐ. τε . . . ἐ. τε, [in LXX for אִם . . . אִם, Est.19:13, al.,] Rom.14:8. __4. = cl. ἄν (which see) after relat. pronouns and adverbs (Tdf., Pr., 96; WH, App., 173; M, Pr., 42f.; Bl., §26, 4; Mayser, 152f.; Deiss., BS, 202ff.): ὃς ἐ., Mat.5:19, Mrk.6:22, 23 Luk.17:32, 1Co.6:18, al.; ὅπου ἐ., Mat.8:19; ὁσάκις ἐ., Rev.11:6; οὗ ἐ., 1Co.16:6; καθὸ ἐ., 2Co.8:12; ὅστις ἐ., Gal.5:10. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

επιγινωσκομενοι epiginōskō G1921 "to come to know" Verb-PPP-NPM

To know something deeply, like recognizing a person or understanding a truth. In the Bible, it's used in Acts 25:10 and 1 Corinthians 13:12 to describe knowing God or others intimately.

Definition: ἐπι-γινώσκω [in LXX chiefly for נָכַר: hi., also for יָדַע, etc. ;] "directive" of γινώσκω (AR, Eph., 249), as in cl.; __1. to observe, perceive, discern, recognize; __(a) absol.: Act.25:10, 1Co.13:12; before ὅτι, Luk.1:22; τ. πνεύματι, before ὅτι, Mrk.2:8; __(b) with accusative of thing(s): Luk.1:4 5:22, Act.12:14 27:39, Rom.1:32, 2Co.1:13, Col.1:6, 1Ti.4:3; ἐν ἐαυτῷ, Mrk.5:30; before ὅτι, 1Co.14:37; __(with) with accusative of person(s): Mat.11:27 14:36 17:12, Mrk.6:33 (T, αὐτούς, but LTr., WH, R, omit the prop., and LTr., WH, txt., read ἔγνωσαν), Mrk.6:54 Luk.24:16, 31, 1Co.16:18, 2Co.1:14; before ἀπό, with genitive of thing(s), Mat.7:16, 20; before ὅτι, Act.3:10 4:13, 2Co.13:5; pass., 1Co.13:12; opposite to ἀγνοούμενοι, 2Co.6:9. __2. to discover, ascertain, determine: Act.9:30; before ὅτι, Luk.7:37 23:7, Act.19:34 22:29 24:11 28:1; with accusative of thing(s), before quæst., Act.23:28; δι᾽ ἣν αἰτίαν, Act.22:24; παρά, with genitive of person(s), before περ, with genitive of thing(s), Act.24:8; τ. ὁδὸν τῆς δικαιοσύνης, 2Pe.2:21 (cf. Lft., Col., 136; Cremer, 159; M, Pr., 113; AR, Eph., 248 ff.).† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 38 NT verses. KJV: (ac-, have, take)know(-ledge, well), perceive See also: 1 Corinthians 13:12; Acts 28:1; Romans 1:32.

ως hōs G5613 "as/when" Adv

αποθνησκοντες apothnēskō G599 "to die" Verb-PAP-NPM

To stop living, or pass away, as seen in John 6:50 and Romans 8:13. It can be a natural death or a spiritual one.

Definition: ἀπο-θνῄσκω, [in LXX chiefly for מוּת ;] to die: of natural death, Mrk.5:35, al.; of violent death (pass. of ἀποκτείνω), esp. of Christ, Mat.26:35, Jhn.12:33, Heb.10:28, al.; of spiritual death, Jhn.6:50, Rom.8:13, al.; with dative ref., Rom.6:2, 10 14:7, 8, Gal.2:19; accusative, ὅ, Rom.6:10; before ἐν, Mat.8:32, Jhn.8:21, 24 1Co.15:22, Heb.11:37, Rev.14:13; before ὑπέρ, περί, Jhn.11:50, 51 18:14, Rom.5:6-8 14:15, 1Co.15:3, 2Co.5:15, 1Th.5:10, 1Pe.3:18; ἀπό, Col.2:20; ἐκ, Rev.8:11; figuratively, 1Co.15:31 (cf. συν-αποθνήσκω, and V. Milligan, NTD, 258f.; DCG, i, 791b; Cremer, 286; MM, see word; on the perfective force of this verb, M, Pr., 112, 114; and on the distinction bet. present and aor., ib. 113 f.). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 99 NT verses. KJV: be dead, death, die, lie a-dying, be slain (X with) See also: 1 Corinthians 8:11; Jude 1:12; Hebrews 7:8.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

ιδου horaō G3708 "to see: see" Verb-2AMM-2S

This word means 'to see' or 'to perceive', and can also mean 'to attend to' or 'to experience', like in Mark 6:38 and John 1:46. It's a key word for understanding and perceiving things.

Definition: ὁράω, -ῶ, [in LXX chiefly for ראה, also for חזה, etc. ;] in "durative" sense (hence aor. act., εἶδον, pass., ὤφθην, fut., ὄψομαι, from different roots; see M, Pr., 110f.), to see (in colloq. even the present is rare, its place being generally taken by θεωρέω, see BL, §24). __1. Of bodily vision, to see, perceive, behold: absol., Mrk.6:38, al.; ἔρχου καὶ ἴδε, Jhn.1:46, al.; before ὅτι, Mrk.2:16, al.; with accusative, Mat.2:2, Mrk.1:10 16:7, Gal.1:19, al.; θεόν, Jhn.1:18, 1Jn.4:20, al. __2. to see with the mind, perceive, discern: absol, Rom.15:21; with accusative of thing(s), Mat.9:2 27:54, Act.8:23, Col.2:18, al. __3. to see, take heed, beware: ὅρα μή, with aor. subjc., Mat.8:4 18:10, Mrk.1:44, 1Th.5:15; id., sc. μὴ ποήσῃς, Rev.19:10 22:9 (Bl., §81, 1); before imperat. Mat.9:30 16:6, Mrk.8:15 __4. to experience: τ. θάνατον, Luk.2:26, Heb.11:5; ζωήν, Jhn.3:36; τ. διαφθοράν, Act.2:27. __5. to visit: with accusative of person(s), Luk.8:20, Jhn.12:21, Rom.1:11, al.; with accusative loc, Act.19:21. __6. to see to, care for: Mat.27:4, Act.18:15 (cf. ἀφ-, καθ-, προ-, συν-οράω). SYN.: see: βλέπω. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 605 NT verses. KJV: behold, perceive, see, take heed See also: 1 Corinthians 2:9; Acts 16:40; 1 Peter 1:8.

ζωμεν zaō G2198 "to live" Verb-PAI-1P

To live means to have life, either physically or spiritually, as seen in Acts 20:12 and Romans 7:1-3. It can also refer to being alive with Christ, like in Philippians 1:21.

Definition: ζάω, -ῶ, [in LXX chiefly for חיה (most frequently ptcp., ζῶν, inf., ζῆν, for חַי ;] __1. prop., to live, be alive (see Syn., see word βίος; in cl. usually of animal life, but sometimes of plants, as Arist., Eth. N, i, 7, 12): Act.20:12, Rom.7:1-3, 1Co.7:39, Rev.19:20, al.; ἐν αὐτῷ ζῶμεν, Act.17:28; ἐμοὶ τὸ ζῆν Χριστός, Php.1:21; διὰ παντὸς τοῦ ζῆν (M, Pr., 215, 249), Heb.2:15; ὃ δὲ νῦν ζῶ ἐν σαρκί, Gal.2:20; ζῇ ἐν ἐμοὶ Χριστός, Gal.2:20; (ὁ) ζῶν, of God (אֵל חַי and cognate phrases, Jos.3:10, Hos.2:1 (1:10), Isa.37:4, al.; see DCG, ii, 39a), Mat.16:16, Jhn.6:57, Rom.9:26, 1Th.1:9, Heb.3:12, Rev.7:2, al.; in juristic phrase, ζῶ ἐγώ (חַי־אָנִי, Num.14:21, al.), as I live, Rom.14:11; ζῆν ἐπ᾽ ἄρτῳ, Mat.4:4, al.; ἐκ, 1Co.9:14; of coming to life, Mrk.16:[11], Rom.6:10 14:9, 2Co.13:4; opposite to νεκρός, Rev.1:18 2:8; metaphorically, Luk.15:32; ζῆν ἐκ νεκρῶν, Rom.6:13; of the spiritual life of Christians, Luk.10:28, Jhn.5:25, Rom.1:17 8:13; εἰς τ. αἰῶνα, Jhn.6:51, 58; σὺν Χριστῷ, 1Th.5:10; ὄνομα ἔχεις ὅτι ζῇς, Rev.3:1. __2. As sometimes in cl., = βιόω, to live, pass one's life: Luk.2:36, Act.26:5, Rom.7:9, Col.2:20; ἐν πίστει, Gal.2:20; ἐν τ. ἁμαρτίᾳ, Rom.6:2; εὐσεβῶς, 2Ti.3:12; ἀσώτως, Luk.15:13; with dative (cl.), ἑαυτῳ (Field, Notes, 164), Rom.14:7, 2Co.5:15; τ. δικαιοσύνῃ, Luk.20:38, Rom.6:10, 11 Gal.2:19; τ. Χριστῷ, 2Co.5:15; τ. θεῷ, 1Pe.2:24; πνεύματι, Gal.5:25; κατὰ σάρκα, Rom.8:12, 13; __3. Of inanimate things, metaphorically: ὕδωρ ζῶν (i.e. springing water, as opposite to still water), in a spiritual sense, Jhn.4:10, 11 7:38 (DCG, ii, 39f.): ἐλπὶς ζῶσα, 1Pe.1:3; ὁδὸς ζῶσα, Heb.10:20 (cf. ἀνα-, συν-ζάω; Cremer, 270, 721). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 126 NT verses. KJV: life(-time), (a-)live(-ly), quick See also: 1 Corinthians 7:39; John 4:11; 1 Peter 1:3.

ως hōs G5613 "as/when" Adv

παιδευομενοι paideuō G3811 "to instruct" Verb-PPP-NPM

This verb means to teach, train, or discipline someone, as seen in Acts 7:22 and 1 Timothy 1:20. It involves educating and correcting others to help them learn and grow. The term is used to describe the process of teaching and guiding others.

Definition: παιδεύω (παίς), [in LXX chiefly for יָסַר ;] __1. as in cl., to train children, hence, generally, to teach, instruct: Act.7:22 22:3, 1Ti.1:20, Tit.2:12. __2. As in LXX (Psa.6:2, Pro.19:18, Wis.3:5, al., and for prob. ex. from π., see MM, xviii), to chasten, correct, chastise: Luk.23:16, 22, 2Ti.2:25, Heb.12:7, 10; of divine chastening, 1Co.11:32, 2Co.6:9, Heb.12:6, Rev.3:19.† SYN.: διδάσκω, q.v (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 13 NT verses. KJV: chasten(-ise), instruct, learn, teach See also: 1 Corinthians 11:32; Hebrews 12:6; Hebrews 12:7.

και kai G2532 "and" Conj

And or also, a connecting word used to join ideas or words, like in Matthew 2:18 and Hebrews 1:1.

Usage: Occurs in 5212 NT verses. KJV: and, also, both, but, even, for, if, or, so, that, then, therefore, when, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 10:4; 1 Corinthians 16:1.

μη mē G3361 "not" Particle-N

Not is a word used to show that something is not true or is not happening, like in phrases that say 'lest' or 'God forbid', as seen in various parts of the New Testament.

Definition: μή, subjective negative particle, used where the negation depends on a condition or hypothesis, expressed or understood, as distinct from οὐ, which denies absolutely. μή is used where one thinks a thing is not, as distinct from an absolute negation. As a general rule, οὐ negatives the indic, μή the other moods, incl, ptcp. [In LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,אַל ] __I. As a neg. adv., not; __1. with ref. to thought or opinion: Jhn.3:18, Tit.1:11, 2Pe.1:9. __2. In delib. questions, with subjc. (M, Pr., 185): Mrk.12:14, Rom.3:8. __3. In conditional and final sentences, after εἰ, ἐάν, ἄν, ἵνα, ὅπως: Mat.10:14, Mrk.6:11 12:19, Luk.9:5, Jhn.6:50, Rom.11:25, al. __4. C. inf. (see M, Pr., 234f., 239, 255), __(a) after verbs of saying, etc.: Mat.2:12 5:34, Mrk.12:18, Act.15:38, Rom.2:21, al.; __(b) with artic. inf.: after a prep., Mat.13:5, Mrk.4:5, Act.7:19, 1Co.10:6, al.; without a prep., Rom.14:13, 2Co.2:1, 13 1Th 4:6; __(with) in sentences expressing consequence, after ὥστε: Mat.8:28, Mrk.3:20, 1Co.1:7, 2Co.3:7, al. __5. C. ptcp. (see M, Pr., 231f., 239), in hypothetical references to persons of a certain character or description: Mat.10:28 12:30, Luk.6:49, Jhn.3:18, Rom.4:5, 1Co.7:38, 1Jn.3:10, al.; where the person or thing being definite, the denial is a matter of opinion: Jhn.6:64, 1Co.1:28 4:7, 18, 2Co.5:21, al.; where the ptcp. has a concessive, causal or conditional force, if, though, because not: Mat.18:25, Luk.2:45, Jhn.7:49, Act.9:26, Rom.2:14 5:13, 2Co.3:14, Gal.6:9, Ju 5; where the ptcp. has a descriptive force (being such as), not: Act.9:9, Rom.1:28, 1Co.10:33, Gal.4:8, Heb.12:27, al. __6. μή prohibitive, in indep. sentences, __(a) with subjc. praes., 1 of person(s) pl.: Gal.5:26 6:9, 1Th.5:6, 1Jn.3:18; __(b) with imperat. praes., usually where one is bidden to desist from what has already begun (cf. M, Pr., 122ff.): Mat.7:1, Mrk.5:36, Luk.6:30, Jhn.2:16 5:45, Act.10:15, Rom.11:18, Jas.2:1, Rev.5:5, al.; __(with) forbidding that which is still future: with imperat. aor., 3 of person(s), Mat.24:18, Mrk.13:15, Luk.17:31, al.; with subjc. aor., 2 of person(s), Mat.3:9 10:26, Mrk.5:7, Luk.6:29, Jhn.3:7, Rom.10:6, al.; __(d) with optative, in wishes: 2Ti.4:16 (LXX); μὴ γένοιτο (see M, Pr., 194; Bl., §66, 1), Luk.20:16, Rom.3:3, al.; μή τις, Mrk.13:5, al. __II. As a conj., __1. after verbs of fearing, caution, etc., that, lest, perhaps (M, Pr., 192f.): with subjc. praes., Heb.12:15; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:4, Mrk.13:5, Luk.21:8, Act.13:40, Gal.5:15, al.; ὅρα μή (see M, Pr., 124, 178), elliptically, Rev.19:10 22:9; with indic, fut. (M, Pr., l.with), Col.2:8. __2. in order that not: with subjc. aor., Mrk.13:36, 2Co.8:20 12:6. __III. Interrogative, in hesitant questions (M, Pr., 170), or where a negative answer is expected: Mat.7:9, 10, Mrk.2:19, Jhn.3:4, Rom.3:3 10:18, 19, 1Co.1:13, al.; μή τις, Luk.22:35, al.; before οὐ (Rom.10:17, al. in Pl.), expecting an affirm, ans.; οὐ μή, Luk.18:7, Jhn.18:11. __IV. οὐ μή as emphatic negation (cf. M, Pr., 188, 190ff.; Bl. §64, 5), not at all, by no means: with indic, fut., Mat.16:22, Jhn.6:35, Heb.10:17, al.; with subjc. aor., Mat.24:2, Mrk.13:2, Luk.6:37, Jhn.13:8, 1Co.8:13, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 910 NT verses. KJV: any but (that), X forbear, + God forbid, + lack, lest, neither, never, no (X wise in), none, nor, (can-)not, nothing, that not, un(-taken), without See also: 1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Peter 2:16; 1 Peter 1:8.

θανατουμενοι thanatoō G2289 "to kill" Verb-PPP-NPM

This word means to kill or put to death. It's used in many places, like Matthew 10:21 and Romans 8:13, to describe causing someone's death or ending their life. It can also mean to mortify or put to death sinful desires.

Definition: θανατόω, -ῶ [in LXX chiefly for מוּת hi., ho., also for הָרַג, etc. ;] to put to death: with accusative, Mat.10:21 26:59 27:1, Mrk.13:12 14:55, Luk.21:16, 2Co.6:9, 1Pe.3:18; pass., Rom.8:36. Metaphorical: Rom.8:13; pass., with dative, (in relation to), Rom.7:4.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 11 NT verses. KJV: become dead, (cause to be) put to death, kill, mortify See also: 1 Peter 3:18; Matthew 10:21; Romans 7:4.

Study Notes — 2 Corinthians 6:9

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Corinthians 6:9 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9
Sermons on 2 Corinthians 6:9

Context — Paul’s Hardships and God’s Grace

7in truthful speech and in the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8through glory and dishonor, slander and praise; viewed as imposters, yet genuine;

9unknown, yet well-known; dying, and yet we live on; punished, yet not killed;

10sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. 11We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians. Our hearts are open wide.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Corinthians 4:10–11	We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always consigned to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our mortal body.
2	Romans 8:36	As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.”
3	2 Corinthians 1:8–10	We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the hardships we encountered in the province of Asia. We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life. Indeed, we felt we were under the sentence of death, in order that we would not trust in ourselves, but in God, who raises the dead. He has delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. In Him we have placed our hope that He will yet again deliver us,
4	2 Corinthians 4:2	Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
5	1 Corinthians 4:9	For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men.
6	2 Corinthians 11:6	Although I am not a polished speaker, I am certainly not lacking in knowledge. We have made this clear to you in every way possible.
7	1 Corinthians 15:31	I face death every day, brothers, as surely as I boast about you in Christ Jesus our Lord.
8	Romans 15:19	by the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.
9	2 Corinthians 5:11	Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is clear to God, and I hope it is clear to your conscience as well.
10	Acts 21:37–38	As they were about to take Paul into the barracks, he asked the commander, “May I say something to you?” “Do you speak Greek?” he replied. “Aren’t you the Egyptian who incited a rebellion some time ago and led four thousand members of the ‘Assassins’ into the wilderness?”

2 Corinthians 6:9 Summary

This verse describes the paradoxes of the Christian life, where we may feel unknown or misunderstood by others, but are fully known and loved by God. We may face difficulties or 'punishment', but we are ultimately preserved and protected by God, as seen in Psalm 34:19. As believers, we can trust that we are 'dying' to sin and living for God, and that we have everything we need in Him, as described in 2 Corinthians 5:17 and Philippians 4:19. By trusting in God's power and love, we can live out these paradoxes and experience joy and peace in the midst of challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean to be 'unknown, yet well-known' in 2 Corinthians 6:9?

This phrase refers to the paradox of being misunderstood or overlooked by the world, yet being fully known and loved by God, as seen in Psalm 139:1-6 and Jeremiah 1:5.

How can we be 'dying, and yet we live on'?

This phrase speaks to the reality of spiritual death and new life in Christ, as described in Romans 6:4 and 2 Corinthians 5:17, where we die to sin and live for God.

What is the significance of being 'punished, yet not killed'?

This phrase highlights the idea that as believers, we may face persecution or hardship, but we are ultimately preserved and protected by God, as seen in Psalm 34:19 and Jeremiah 29:11.

How does this verse relate to the broader context of 2 Corinthians 6?

This verse is part of a larger passage where the Apostle Paul describes the contradictions and paradoxes of the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of living by faith and trusting in God's power and love, as seen in 2 Corinthians 6:7-10 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways in which I feel 'unknown' or misunderstood by others, and how can I trust that God fully knows and loves me?
In what areas of my life do I need to surrender to the idea of 'dying' to self and living for God, as described in Romans 6:4?
How can I cultivate a sense of joy and trust in God's preservation, even when facing difficulties or 'punishment' in my life?
What are some practical ways I can live out the paradoxes described in this verse, such as being 'poor, yet making many rich' or 'having nothing, and yet possessing everything'?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 6:9

As unknown, and yet well known,.... Not unknown to Father, Son, and Spirit, or to one another, but to the world; and that not with respect to their outward estate, but their spiritual and eternal

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 6:9

As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; Unknown, and yet well known - "unknown" in our true character to, and held 'ignoble' by, those who "evil

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9

As unknown, and yet well known; dealt with by Jews and heathens as persons wholly unknown to them, though we be sufficiently known; or being such whom the world knoweth not, as to our state towards God, and interest in him, though it knows us well enough as to our other circumstances. As dying, and, behold, we live; so hunted and persecuted, as that we appear every day dying; yet such hath been the power of God’ s providence, that we yet live: As chastened, and not killed; and though our heavenly Father chasteneth us, yet we are not utterly consumed: the apostle alludeth to that, : The Lord hath chastened me sore; but he hath not given me over to death.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9

9 As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed; Ver. 9. As unknown] To the world, 1 John 3:1-2. A prince in a strange land is little set by, as not known. Unkent, unkist, as the northern proverb hath it. Well known] To those who have spiritual judgment, and can prize a person to his worth, which the world’ s wizards cannot do, Isaiah 53:2-3. And not killed] God will have a care of that; he corrects in measure, he smites his not at the root, but in the branches, Isaiah 27:8. As it is a rule in medicine still to maintain nature, &c., so doth God still keep up the spirits of his people by cordials, Isaiah 57:16.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9

(9) As unknown, and yet well known.—In the absence of fuller information as to what disparaging language had been used in reference to St. Paul, it is not easy to appreciate the precise force of the words thus used. Possibly, he had been spoken of as a man of “unknown” or obscure antecedents, and his answer to that taunt is, as in 2 Corinthians 1:13-14, that where he was known at all he was recognised as being what indeed he was. He could show even to them, to some of them at least, whether it were not so. In “dying, and, behold, we live” we may trace a reference partly to the “sentence of death” which had, as it were, been passed upon him (2 Corinthians 1:9), partly to the malignant exultation with which that fact had been received, or was likely, he thought, to be received by those who hated him. We can picture them as saying, “His course will soon be over; he will not trouble us long;” and his answer to that imagined sneer is that he is still in full energy. What has befallen him has been a chastening and a discipline, but he is not yet, as they fondly thought, “killed” and delivered over unto death.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9

Verse 9. As unknown] Persons who are to be suspected as harbouring dark designs; persons of neither birth, parentage, nor respectable connections in life; And yet well known] Proved by our whole conduct to have no such designs, and demonstrated to be holy, upright, and useful, by the whole train of our peregrinations, through which we can be readily traced from place to place; having preached openly, and done nothing in a corner. As dying] Through continual dangers, fatigues, and persecutions; And, behold, we live] We are preserved by the mighty power of God in the greatest dangers and deaths. As chastened] As though we were disobedient children; And not killed] Though we continue in the very same line of conduct that is supposed to bring on us those chastisements, and which, if it were criminal, would justly expose us to death for incorrigible obstinacy; but our preservation is a proof that we please God.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 6:9

9. as unknown, and yet well known] The passage would be better without the ‘yet’ interpolated by our translators (following Tyndale). St Paul was ‘unknown’ to some, and ‘well known’ to others. Cf. ch. 2 Corinthians 3:1-2, 2 Corinthians 4:2, 2 Corinthians 5:11.as dying, and behold, we live] See ch. 2 Corinthians 4:10-11. Also Romans 8:36-37; 1 Corinthians 4:9; 1 Corinthians 15:31; Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:13; Colossians 3:1-4.as chastened, and not killed] Cf. Psalms 118:18, which was no doubt in the Apostle’s mind. Also ch. 2 Corinthians 7:4.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 6:9

As unknown - As those who are deemed to be of an obscure and ignoble rank in life, unknown to the great, unknown to fame. The idea, I think, is, that they went as strangers, as persons unknown, in preaching the gospel.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:9

9. As unknown—Ignored and un-recognised. Yet well known—To those who have accepted the gospel, and every-where spoken against by those who ignore us. Behold, we live—A triumphant retort; we are not so dead as you think us.

Sermons on 2 Corinthians 6:9

	Sermon	Description
	Bible Paradoxes by William MacDonald	William MacDonald explores the intriguing paradoxes found in the Bible, emphasizing how these truths challenge our conventional understanding. He illustrates that true life is foun
	The Shadow of Martyrdom by William MacDonald	William MacDonald emphasizes the profound commitment of true discipleship to Jesus Christ, where life and death become secondary to glorifying the Lord. He reflects on the lives of
	And They Crucified Him by Art Katz	This sermon emphasizes the need for Christians to embrace the suffering and humility exemplified by the early church in the book of Acts. It challenges believers to confront the av
	Religiosity or Spirituality - Life and Laws by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the difference between religious and spiritual people. He uses the analogy of a pig on a leash to illustrate how religious people rely on rule
	(The Foundation and the Building) the Most Important Thing in Life by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a Christlike attitude and values. He challenges the audience to not just passively listen to the message, but to all
	(2 Corinthians) ch.4:3-4:11 by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the ministry of the New Covenant and the importance of being adequate for this ministry. He emphasizes that it is God who makes us adequate,
	Philippians by Norman Grubb	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of intercession and the role it plays in the body of Christ. He emphasizes that intercession is not just a spiritual gift, but