Brief Overview of ἐπείπερ (Strong’s G1897: epeíper)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital for Biblical studies as it opens up a deeper understanding of the original text’s nuances and meanings. The Greek word ἐπείπερ (transliterated as “epeíper”) is significant because it functions as a strong causal conjunction that emphasizes a cause-and-effect relationship. This term is crucial for interpreting New Testament passages where logical emphasis is important, and it also offers insights into the structure of ancient Greek rhetoric and logic.

Key Information

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• Greek Word: ἐπείπερ (epeíper) [eh-PEY-per]
• Etymology Root Words and Meanings:
• Derived from ἐπεί (epei), meaning “since” or “because,” combined with περ (per), which adds an emphatic or intensive quality. Together, ἐπείπερ means “since indeed” or “because truly.”
• Part of Speech: Conjunction
• Grammatical Details: Functions as a subordinating conjunction, typically introducing an emphatic causal clause. It does not inflect or change form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• “Since indeed”
• “Because truly”
• “Inasmuch as”
• “Given that”

Similar Words:
The Greek word ἐπεί (epei) [eh-PEY], meaning “since” or “because,” is similar but less emphatic than ἐπείπερ. The addition of περ (per) to ἐπεί forms ἐπείπερ, which intensifies the sense of reason or causation in the statement. Another related word is διότι (dioti) [dee-OH-tee], which also means “because” but is used more frequently in logical arguments without the emphasis or emotional weight that ἐπείπερ carries.

Further Insights:
ἐπείπερ is a fixed form conjunction and does not have inflectional variations. Its usage adds a significant emphasis to the statement, underscoring the undeniable or self-evident nature of the cause. This emphatic quality makes it a powerful tool in both Biblical and classical Greek rhetoric, where clarity and persuasion are key.
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Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
The BDAG lexicon defines ἐπείπερ as an emphatic conjunction meaning “since indeed” or “because truly.” It highlights the word’s usage in strongly affirming a cause or reason within an argumentative or explanatory context.

Thayers:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐπείπερ as “inasmuch as” or “since indeed,” emphasizing its function to provide a definite and persuasive reason. It is less commonly found in the New Testament, which indicates its specialized usage for strong emphasis.

Vines:
Vines Expository Dictionary categorizes ἐπείπερ under causal conjunctions, focusing on its unique role in underscoring an undeniable or compelling reason. It is typically used in contexts where the speaker or writer seeks to strongly reinforce their point.

LSJ:
The Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) lexicon describes ἐπείπερ as more emphatic than ἐπεί, translating it as “since indeed” or “because truly.” It is commonly found in classical Greek literature, particularly in philosophical or rhetorical texts that require strong logical connections.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists ἐπείπερ as a conjunction meaning “since indeed,” highlighting its role in connecting clauses with an emphatic cause. It stresses its usage in contexts where the reason is meant to be persuasive and unchallengeable.

Related Scripture References

• Romans 3:30: “Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.” (ἐπείπερ is translated here as “seeing it is”)

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐπείπερ (G1897)

The Greek conjunction ἐπείπερ (epeíper) is an emphatic word that enhances the cause-and-effect relationship within sentences in both Biblical and classical Greek texts. Its primary meanings, such as “since indeed” or “because truly,” make it a powerful tool for expressing reasons that are compelling and indisputable. While ἐπείπερ is not commonly found in the New Testament, its usage in classical Greek literature shows its value in philosophical, rhetorical, and argumentative contexts. Understanding this word helps scholars and students of Greek appreciate the subtleties of emphasis and persuasion in ancient writings.

Did You Know?

Did you know that ἐπείπερ is considered a highly emphatic conjunction in ancient Greek? Its rarity in the New Testament suggests that it was used selectively to add significant weight to arguments or statements, underscoring reasons that the writer or speaker wanted to emphasize strongly.