Brief Overview of κἀγώ (Strong’s G2504: kagō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek conjunctions like κἀγώ (kagō) is essential for biblical studies, as they often carry significant meaning in the interpretation of texts. κἀγώ is a compound word meaning “and I” or “I also,” formed from the combination of the conjunction καί (kai, “and”) and the pronoun ἐγώ (egō, “I”). Its usage in the New Testament emphasizes the speaker’s inclusion or identification with a preceding statement or action, providing clarity and emphasis in the narrative.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: κἀγώ (kagō), pronounced [ka-GOH].
• Etymology: Derived from καί (kai, “and”) + ἐγώ (egō, “I”).
• Part of Speech: Conjunction (compound).
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Primary Meanings

• And I: Used to join two related clauses or ideas where the speaker includes themselves in the statement or action.
• I also: Often used to express agreement or participation in what has been previously mentioned.

Similar Words: καί (kai) [kai] – A common conjunction meaning “and” or “also.” While καί is a standalone conjunction, κἀγώ includes the personal pronoun to specify the speaker’s inclusion.

Further Insights: κἀγώ is a contraction that blends καί and ἐγώ, commonly found in Koine Greek texts. It serves to both connect and emphasize the speaker’s role in a statement, enhancing the rhetorical impact. Due to its composite nature, κἀγώ does not follow a declension pattern like nouns or adjectives but is instead an invariable form.

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Lexicon Insights

• BDAG: Notes that κἀγώ is a conjunction used to emphasize the speaker’s personal inclusion or to add emphasis to an agreement.
• Thayers: Defines κἀγώ as “and I,” “I also,” or “even I,” underscoring its role in joining sentences and enhancing clarity.
• Vines: Describes κἀγώ as an example of Greek elision, where two words are combined for fluidity and emphasis in speech.
• LSJ: Points out that κἀγώ appears frequently in dialogue to underscore a speaker’s agreement or shared experience.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Lists κἀγώ under G2504 and emphasizes its compound nature, connecting the conjunction καί and pronoun ἐγώ.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 10:32 – “Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I [κἀγώ] will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven.”
• John 12:26 – “If anyone serves Me, he must follow Me; and where I am, there [κἀγώ] My servant will be also.”

Classical Usage

While κἀγώ is primarily associated with Koine Greek found in the New Testament, it also appears in classical Greek texts, showing its broader linguistic application.

Summary of κἀγώ (G2504: kagō)

κἀγώ (kagō) is a compound word that combines the conjunction καί and the pronoun ἐγώ, emphasizing inclusion and agreement in biblical texts. Its significance lies in how it allows the speaker to connect with a previous idea or action, often used for rhetorical emphasis in the New Testament. Understanding κἀγώ provides deeper insights into the nuance of biblical narratives and helps readers appreciate the layers of meaning in the Greek text.

Did You Know?

• κἀγώ is an example of Greek elision, where two words are combined for smoother reading and speech.
• It often appears in the Gospels to emphasize Jesus’ inclusive actions or statements.
• Understanding conjunctions like κἀγώ is crucial for grasping the subtleties in New Testament texts.

This comprehensive overview of κἀγώ highlights its role in biblical literature, emphasizing its function in connecting ideas and expressing personal involvement.