Brief Overview of ἄρα (G686: ára)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: ára

Root Words:

• The word ἄρα is an adverb and does not derive from a specific root word but functions in Greek as a particle.

Primary Meanings:

• Therefore
• Consequently
• Then
• So

In Greek, ἄρα is used as a conjunction or particle that indicates a conclusion or inference based on the preceding statement. It often translates to “therefore,” “consequently,” or “then.”

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG describes ἄρα as a particle used to denote a logical or causal connection, translating to “therefore,” “consequently,” or “then.” It is commonly used to infer a conclusion based on previous statements or arguments.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon identifies ἄρα as a conjunction meaning “therefore” or “consequently.” It is used to draw a conclusion from what has been previously stated.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that ἄρα is used to express a logical conclusion, translating to “therefore” or “so,” and it indicates the result or consequence of an argument or statement.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon lists ἄρα as a particle meaning “therefore” or “so,” used to express logical conclusions or inferences in discourse.

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Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἄρα as “therefore” or “so,” used to indicate the logical conclusion of what has been stated earlier.

Bible Verses:

• John 3:7 (KJV): “Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.”
• The ἄρα is implied in the logical connection between Jesus’ statements about being born again and the necessity of this rebirth.
• Romans 4:16 (KJV): “Therefore it is of faith, that it might be by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the seed; not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham.”
• Here, ἄρα is used to signify a logical conclusion based on previous arguments about faith and grace.
• Hebrews 10:5 (KJV): “Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me.”
• The ἄρα is used to introduce a conclusion drawn from Old Testament sacrifices.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, ἄρα is used to denote a logical or causal connection:

• Aristotle uses ἄρα in his philosophical works to draw conclusions from premises or arguments.
• Plato employs ἄρα in dialogues to indicate the result or consequence of philosophical reasoning or discussions.
• Herodotus uses ἄρα to connect narrative elements or to infer conclusions based on historical events.

4. Summary:

The Greek word ἄρα (G686: ára) is a particle meaning “therefore,” “consequently,” or “so.” It is used to denote a logical conclusion or inference based on previous statements or arguments. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ agree on its function as a conjunction indicating result or consequence. In biblical and classical Greek literature, ἄρα is employed to connect statements and infer conclusions logically, reflecting its role in expressing causal relationships.