Brief Overview of καί γε (Strong’s G2534: kai ge)

Introduction

Understanding the Greek phrase καί γε (kai ge) is essential for Biblical studies because it highlights nuances in conjunction and emphasis within the New Testament text. This unique phrase, only found in the KJV combines the conjunction “kai” (meaning “and”) with the particle “ge” (an intensifier), offers subtle but significant layers of meaning. Knowing its usage can enhance interpretations of biblical passages, providing deeper insights into the ancient Greek language and its cultural implications.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: καί γε (kai ge), pronounced [kah-yee geh].
• Etymology: Combines καί (kai, “and”) with γε (ge, an intensifying particle).
• Part of Speech: Conjunction with an emphatic particle.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• And indeed, and yet, even – used to add emphasis or highlight agreement in a statement.

Similar Words: καί (kai) [kah-yee] – meaning “and,” is a basic conjunction without the added emphasis of γε. The combination καί γε emphasizes or strengthens the preceding word or phrase, while καί stands alone without that additional nuance.

Further Insights: καί γε serves as an emphatic conjunction that intensifies or adds a special focus to a phrase. Its usage is seen as an intensifier in Greek, similar to how “indeed” or “even” can modify a statement in English. There is no declension for this phrase, as it does not function as a noun or adjective but remains grammatically fixed as a particle-conjunction combination. Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Notes that καί γε is used to add emphasis or affirmation in a statement, highlighting agreement or concession.
• Thayers: Describes καί γε as an emphatic conjunction, often translated as “and indeed” or “and even,” emphasizing the preceding thought.
• Vines: Discusses καί γε as a combination used for emphasis, often indicating a stronger connection between clauses than καί alone.
• LSJ: Highlights the usage of καί γε in classical and Hellenistic Greek literature, noting its function to intensify or confirm.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists καί γε as an emphatic conjunction used in various New Testament contexts, providing additional weight or clarity to a statement.

Related Scripture References

• Acts 21:39: “But Paul said, ‘I am a Jew of Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no insignificant city; and I beg you (καί γε) to permit me to speak to the people.'”
• Hebrews 6:14: “Saying, ‘Surely blessing I will bless you, and multiplying (καί γε) I will multiply you.'”

Classical Usage

In classical Greek literature and the Septuagint, καί γε is often employed for emphasis, reinforcing statements or clauses.

Summary of καί γε (G2534: kai ge)

καί γε (kai ge) serves as an emphatic conjunction in New Testament Greek, adding intensity or emphasis to statements. Its use can change the nuance of a passage, enhancing its meaning and providing a more profound understanding of the text. Found in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature, καί γε underscores the speaker’s intention, making it an essential tool for those interpreting ancient Greek texts.

Did You Know?

• καί γε is often used to express agreement or concession, similar to “indeed” in English.
• The phrase appears in contexts where the speaker wants to emphasize certainty or add weight to their words.
• While καί is a common conjunction, the addition of γε makes the statement more pointed and emphatic.