| 11. Linguistic Exegesis The verse begins with the aorist verb eipen {εἶπεν | eî-pen} ‘he said,’ introducing the parable’s direct speech. The postpositive conjunction de {δέ | dé} connects this statement to the preceding narrative and is rendered “And” at the start for smooth English flow. The phrase anthrōpos tis {Ἄνθρωπός τις | án-thrō-pos tis} “a certain man” uses tis to denote an unspecified individual typical of parable openings. The imperfect eichen {εἶχεν | eî-chen} “he had” indicates continuous possession, emphasizing an ongoing family situation. The accusative dyo hyious {δύο υἱούς | dý-o hui-oús} “two sons” specifies quantity and relationship, framing narrative contrast. This single clause serves as the parable’s exposition, establishing characters before conflict arises. |