Book of Galatians - Chapter 4 - Verse 15

The verse 'Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.' is from the book of Galatians in the Bible. In this verse, the apostle Paul is questioning the Galatians about their change in attitude towards him. He reminds them of the strong bond they once shared, noting that they were willing to go to great lengths to help him, even offering to give him their own eyes if necessary. Paul is expressing his disbelief that the Galatians, who initially held him in such high regard, had turned away from him and the teachings he had shared with them. This verse serves as a reminder of the fickleness and changing nature of relationships, and the importance of remaining steadfast in one's beliefs and loyalties.

One theological interpretation of this verse comes from the context in which it was written. The apostle Paul is addressing the Galatian Christians who had previously received his teachings with joy and acceptance. However, they had now turned away from the true gospel and were being swayed by false teachings. In this verse, Paul is expressing his disappointment in their behavior, questioning where their initial enthusiasm and blessedness had gone. The mention of plucking out their own eyes and giving them to Paul is likely a metaphor for the extreme lengths they would have gone to for him if it were possible. This demonstrates the depth of their relationship and the level of care and concern Paul had for the Galatians.

Additionally, a word study of the term "blessedness" in this verse reveals that the Greek word used is "makarismos", which can also be translated as happiness or joy. Paul is essentially asking the Galatians what has happened to the joy and blessing they once experienced in their relationship with him and in their faith. This word choice emphasizes the contrast between their previous state of blessedness and their current state of confusion and straying from the truth. Overall, this verse serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of holding firm to the true gospel and not allowing oneself to be led astray by false teachings.