What does Romans 3:15 mean?

Explanation

[Romans 3:15](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+3%3A15&version=KJV) "Their feet are swift to shed blood:" is a verse that metaphorically conveys a critique of human nature, especially in the context of wrongdoing and violence.

The phrasing "Their feet are swift" implies eagerness and haste – it is indicative of individuals who are quick to resort to violence or infliction of harm onto others.

It is part of a larger passage where the apostle Paul is describing the universal sinfulness of humanity, which is his argument that both Jews and Gentiles are equally under the power of sin and thus in need of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

This verse is from the Epistle to the Romans in the New Testament, which was written by the Apostle Paul around 56-58 A.D.

Romans is often considered one of Paul’s most important letters, as it presents a detailed outline of Christian theology.

Romans 3:15 is a citation from [Isaiah 59:7](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+59%3A7&version=KJV), demonstrating Paul’s frequent use of Hebrew scripture to make his points to a largely Jewish audience.

He uses traditional Jewish rhetoric by stringing together quotations from scripture to indict both Gentiles and Jews as sinners in need of salvation.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reflects the doctrine of human sinfulness, and it is often used to support the concept of total depravity in Calvinist traditions, which states that every part of humanity is affected by sin.

From a Christian perspective, the emphasis is on the need for divine grace through Jesus Christ, as human efforts are insufficient for salvation.

Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox interpretations might use this verse to emphasize the importance of both faith and works, as well as sacraments, for salvation and the transforming grace of God.

Practical Applications

In contemporary life, this verse can serve as a caution against the human propensity for violence or conflict.

It urges for introspection and a call to self-restraint, urging people to be slow to anger and quick to seek peace and reconciliation.

It can also remind individuals to examine their own behaviors and to ensure that they are not being impulsive or harmful in their dealings with others.

In a broader sense, it encourages the cultivation of patience and empathy in personal relationships, communities, and international relations.

Cross-References

• [Isaiah 59:7](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+59%3A7&version=KJV): “Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.”
• [Proverbs 1:16](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs+1%3A16&version=KJV): “For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood.”
• [Psalm 14:1-3](https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+14%3A1-3&version=KJV): "They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek manuscript of Romans 3:15 are:

• "ὀξεῖς" (oxeis): Often translated "swift" or "quick", which expresses promptness or speed.
• "ἐκχέω" (ekcheo): Translated as "to shed," which can mean to pour out, spill, or figuratively to cause bloodshed.

Analyzing these words highlights the sense of urgency and decisiveness in the action of causing harm.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient myths, such as those from Greek or Norse traditions, there are often gods who are swift to violence, reflecting a human understanding of divine behavior mirroring human impulsivity and aggression.

In the context of other religious interpretations, such as in Buddhism, there is the notion of karma where violent actions lead to negative outcomes.

In Hinduism, texts like the Bhagavad Gita discuss the morality of violence and warfare in a complex way, contrasting with the biblical condemnation of eagerness to harm others.

Scientific Perspectives

From the standpoint of modern psychology, impulsivity and aggression can be seen as behavioral traits subject to numerous influences, including biological, social, and environmental factors.

Neuroscientific research investigates the brain's mechanisms that control aggressive behavior and impulsivity.

Such scientific perspectives can provide a deeper understanding of what drives individuals to be "swift to shed blood" and can inform interventions to manage or mitigate violent behavior.

Commentaries

Commentators on Romans 3:15 offer varied insights:

• Early Church Fathers like John Chrysostom saw this as proof of the pervasiveness of sin and the need for God's law.
• Reformation leaders such as Martin Luther used this verse to argue the universality of sin and the need for faith in Christ alone for salvation.
• Modern biblical scholars may focus on the rhetorical strategy Paul employs, using this reference to Isaiah to indict his audience and then offer the remedy of salvation through faith, highlighting the depth of human sin and the power of God's grace.