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Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding Greek words is essential for grasping the deeper meanings of scripture and the cultural context in which they were written. The Greek word ἔτι (eti) is a versatile adverb frequently used in the New Testament to convey the sense of “still,” “yet,” or “even.” Its usage provides nuance to narratives and teachings, revealing more about the timing, continuity, or persistence of actions or states. Understanding this word enhances our interpretation of New Testament passages, offering insights into the language and thought processes of ancient Greek culture.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἔτι (eti) [EH-tee]
- Etymology: Likely from a primary word (etos) meaning “still” or “yet.”
- Part of Speech: Adverb.
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Still: Indicates that something is continuing or persisting.
- Yet: Used to convey that something has not occurred or is still expected.
- Even: Emphasizes a statement, often suggesting an additional or heightened sense of something.
Similar Words: ἀκόμη (akomi) [ah-KOH-mee], meaning “yet” or “still.” While both ἔτι and ἀκόμη can express continuity or persistence, ἀκόμη tends to emphasize the ongoing nature of an action or state more strongly than ἔτι, which is more versatile in various contexts.
Further Insights: The word ἔτι is an adverb that does not change form and therefore does not have a declension pattern like nouns or adjectives. Its flexibility in Greek grammar allows it to be used in various contexts to indicate continuity, expectation, or emphasis, depending on the situation. Adverbs like ἔτι are crucial for understanding the nuances of Greek sentences.
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Lexicon Insights
BDAG: The lexicon explains ἔτι as an adverb meaning “still,” “yet,” or “even.” It is often used to denote the continuation of an action or state or to introduce an unexpected or surprising element.
Thayer’s: Thayer’s lexicon describes ἔτι as “still,” “yet,” or “furthermore,” used in various contexts where an action or condition is ongoing or expected to continue. It also highlights its use in rhetorical emphasis.
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Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s notes that ἔτι conveys the idea of “still” or “yet” in a temporal sense and can also imply a degree of extension or addition when used to mean “even.”
LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): The LSJ lexicon defines ἔτι broadly as “still” or “yet,” providing examples from both biblical and classical Greek literature where it signifies continuity or an ongoing condition.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s concordance defines ἔτι as “still,” highlighting its use in scripture to indicate a continued action or an expected outcome.
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 5:23: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still (ἔτι) together on the way.”
- Mark 8:17: “Aware of their discussion, Jesus asked them: ‘Why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still (ἔτι) not see or understand? Are your hearts hardened?'”
- John 4:35: “Do you not say, ‘There are yet (ἔτι) four months, then comes the harvest’? Look, I tell you, lift up your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Homer | Iliad | “And still (ἔτι) they fought on, not knowing what lay in store for them.” |
| Aristotle | Nicomachean Ethics | “If one were to speak still (ἔτι) further about virtue, it would lead to more discoveries.” |
| Herodotus | Histories | “The people were still (ἔτι) undecided about the best course of action.” |
Septuagint Examples:
| Author | Name of Work | English text |
|---|---|---|
| Genesis | Genesis 8:10 | “He waited yet (ἔτι) another seven days, and again he sent forth the dove out of the ark.” |
| Exodus | Exodus 9:28 | “Plead with the Lord, for there has been enough of God’s thunder and hail. I will let you go, and you shall stay no longer (ἔτι).” |
| Isaiah | Isaiah 30:1 | “Woe to the rebellious children, declares the Lord, who carry out a plan, but not mine, and make an alliance, but not of my Spirit, that they may add (ἔτι) sin to sin.” |
Summary of ἔτι (G2089)
ἔτι (eti) is a flexible adverb in Biblical Greek that generally means “still,” “yet,” or “even.” It plays a significant role in conveying continuity, expectation, or emphasis, depending on the context in which it is used. Understanding this word provides deeper insights into the interpretation of Biblical passages and enhances comprehension of ancient Greek literature. Its usage across different contexts—from scripture to classical texts—demonstrates its versatility and importance in conveying subtle distinctions in meaning.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the word ἔτι (eti) is found over 90 times in the New Testament? It serves as a crucial connector in many passages, helping to express ongoing actions or states and adding depth to teachings and narratives. Understanding such small yet impactful words can greatly enhance one’s comprehension of Biblical Greek texts.
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