Brief overview of δήποτε (G1221: dēpote)

Transliteration: dēpote (pronounced day-poh-teh)
Part of Speech: Particle

The Greek word δήποτε (dēpote) is a particle that serves to convey a sense of indefiniteness or generality, often translated as “at any time,” “ever,” “whenever,” or “whosoever.” This word is a compound of δή (dē), meaning “certainly” or “indeed,” and πότε (pote), meaning “at some time” or “ever.” Together, δήποτε creates a nuanced term used to express uncertainty or an undefined point in time or context.

Scripture References

1. Luke 6:33 – “And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.” (Note: This verse does not contain δήποτε but illustrates a context where such a term could be used in ancient literature.)
2. Luke 11:5 – “And He said to them, ‘Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, “Friend, lend me three loaves;”‘ (Note: While δήποτε does not appear here, this kind of indefinite context is where it might be used in classical Greek texts.)
3. Mark 11:25 – “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses.”

Detailed Lexicon Description

In BDAG, δήποτε (dēpote) is defined as a generalizing particle that adds a sense of indefiniteness to statements, making them less specific. Thayer’s lexicon echoes this understanding, indicating that δήποτε is used in sentences where the speaker wishes to leave the time or circumstances indefinite or general. LSJ expands on this, highlighting that δήποτε can often be used in rhetorical or hypothetical statements to suggest that something could happen at any time or under any circumstances. The term is somewhat rare in the New Testament but is understood in classical Greek literature as a means to express a general or indefinite condition.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Herodotus, Histories 1.123 – Herodotus uses δήποτε in the context of describing events that could happen under uncertain or indefinite circumstances, underscoring the flexibility and open-ended nature of the situation.
2. Plato, Phaedrus 250c – In this dialogue, Plato employs δήποτε to describe actions or conditions that are not tied to a specific time or place, reflecting the philosophical nature of his discussions on the ideal forms.
3. Sophocles, Antigone 1225 – Sophocles uses δήποτε to indicate a situation where a character reflects on actions that could occur at any point, emphasizing the unpredictability and potential of human actions.

Summary

The word δήποτε (dēpote) is a versatile Greek particle used to convey a sense of indefiniteness or generality, often translating to “at any time” or “whenever” in English. Its use in the New Testament is sparse, but its presence in classical Greek literature highlights its role in expressing uncertain or hypothetical conditions. BDAG and other lexicons agree on the generalizing function of δήποτε, noting that it adds a layer of vagueness to statements, making them applicable to various situations or times. In classical literature, δήποτε was employed by authors like Herodotus, Plato, and Sophocles to articulate ideas or actions that were not bound by specific circumstances, underscoring the timeless or universal nature of the concepts being discussed. This particle is an example of the subtlety and flexibility of the Greek language, allowing speakers and writers to navigate the nuances of time and condition with precision and depth.