Brief Overview of αἴτιον (G158)

The Greek word αἴτιον (aítíon) means “cause” or “reason.” It refers to the underlying factor or explanation for something. This term can denote the reason behind an action, event, or condition, highlighting the factor that brings about a particular result.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• G158 αἴτιον (aítíon): Strong’s defines this term as “cause” or “reason.” It describes the underlying reason or explanation for an action, event, or condition. The term is used to indicate the factor responsible for something occurring or the grounds for a particular situation. For example, it appears in Luke 23:22, where it refers to the reason given for a decision.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• According to Thayer’s, αἴτιον means “cause” or “reason.” Thayer’s elaborates that this term refers to the underlying cause or explanation for a specific event or condition. It can denote the factor that leads to a particular outcome or the justification for something happening. Thayer’s highlights the term’s use in providing the rationale or grounds for a situation (e.g., Luke 23:22).

1. Brown-Driver-Briggs (BDB) Lexicon:

• BDB describes αἴτιον as “cause” or “reason.” The lexicon notes that this term encompasses the idea of an underlying cause or explanation for an event or condition. It reflects the concept of identifying the factor responsible for something happening or the justification behind a situation (e.g., Luke 23:22). BDB’s explanation emphasizes the term’s role in providing causal or explanatory reasons.

1. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon:

• The LSJ Lexicon defines αἴτιον as “cause” or “reason.” It describes the term as referring to the underlying cause or explanation for an action or event. In classical and New Testament Greek, it is used to denote the factor that leads to a specific outcome or the rationale behind a situation (e.g., Luke 23:22). LSJ highlights the term’s application in expressing causal relationships.

In summary, αἴτιον refers to the concept of cause or reason, encompassing the underlying explanation or justification for an action, event, or condition, as used in classical and New Testament Greek contexts.