Brief Overview of δή (G1211: dē)

Dē (pronounced day) is a Greek particle that plays a critical role in the expression of emphasis, certainty, or immediacy within a sentence. The term does not easily translate into English as a single word, but its usage can be understood in context as adding force or clarity to the statement it accompanies. It often serves to draw attention to the significance or truth of what is being said, functioning somewhat like “indeed,” “truly,” or “now” in English. In some cases, it can serve to emphasize the inevitability or necessity of an event or action.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: The particle δή does not derive from another word but is an independent particle in Greek.
• Part of Speech: Particle.

Primary Meanings:

• Emphasis and Affirmation: Dē is often used to emphasize a statement, underscoring its truthfulness or importance.
• Immediate Action or Certainty: It can also convey a sense of immediacy, as if to say “now” or “then,” directing attention to the necessity or certainty of an event or action.
• Clarification and Focus: The particle can help to clarify or focus the meaning of a sentence, making the speaker’s intent more explicit.

Scripture References

1. Luke 2:15: “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now (δή) go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.”
2. Acts 13:2: “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.”
3. Acts 15:36: “And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.”

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) notes that δή is used to emphasize a statement, often reinforcing the truth or significance of what is being communicated. BDAG highlights its role in making statements more direct or immediate, particularly in dialogue where the speaker is emphasizing a point or urging immediate action.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon expands on this by explaining that δή is employed in the New Testament to emphasize certainty and truth, frequently used in narrative passages where a certain outcome or event is underscored. Thayer’s also notes that δή can convey a sense of inevitability, emphasizing that something will or must happen.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary concurs with these interpretations, adding that δή often appears in contexts where the speaker is confirming or validating the truth of their statement. Vine’s suggests that the particle is particularly useful for drawing attention to key points in a discourse, ensuring that the audience understands the importance of what is being said.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon) adds that δή is commonly found in classical Greek literature, where it serves to stress immediacy or certainty in statements. It is often used in conjunction with commands, exhortations, or statements of fact that the speaker wishes to underscore.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Iliad”: In the Iliad, δή is frequently used to emphasize the urgency or inevitability of actions during battle. For example, a warrior might be urged to strike now (δή) or face the consequences. The particle thus adds intensity to the narrative.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus uses δή to underscore the importance of certain events or decisions, particularly in recounting critical moments in battles or diplomatic decisions. The particle often marks a turning point or significant moment in the story.
3. Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex”: In Oedipus Rex, δή is used in dialogue to emphasize the certainty or necessity of a character’s actions or fate. For example, when characters discuss the inevitable outcome of prophecies, δή is employed to highlight the certainty of what is being foretold.

Summary

Dē (G1211) is a Greek particle that plays a crucial role in adding emphasis, certainty, and immediacy to statements in both biblical and classical Greek literature. While it does not have a direct English equivalent, it functions to underscore the truth, urgency, or importance of what is being communicated. Dē is often found in contexts where a speaker needs to confirm, clarify, or stress the significance of their words. Its usage across various Greek texts highlights its importance in ensuring that key points are not overlooked, making it a vital tool in Greek rhetoric and narrative.