Brief Overview of ἔστω (Strong’s G2077: estō)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies as it enables deeper insights into the New Testament’s original texts. The Greek word ἔστω (estō) is particularly significant because it is the third person singular present imperative form of the verb “to be” (εἰμί, eimi). This form is used to issue commands or permissions regarding a state of being, making it a vital term for understanding directives, exhortations, and divine instructions in the New Testament. Studying ἔστω helps in comprehending how early Christians were guided in their behavior and beliefs, providing insight into both New Testament interpretation and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἔστω (estō) [ES-toh]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb εἰμί (eimi), meaning “to be.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (present imperative, third person singular).
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Let him/her/it be: A command or permission to be in a particular state.
• Should be: An exhortation suggesting how one should exist or behave.

Similar Words: εἰμί (eimi) [ee-MEE] is the root verb meaning “to be.” While ἔστω (estō) is the third person singular imperative form (“let him/her/it be”), εἰμί (eimi) serves as the infinitive form and root from which all other forms are derived. Another related form is ἔσται (estai) [ES-tai], the future middle indicative form meaning “he/she/it will be,” used to denote future states or conditions.

Further Insights: ἔστω (estō) is an imperative mood form of the verb εἰμί. It is employed to issue a command or instruction, typically in contexts where an authoritative direction or suggestion is given. The imperative form does not describe reality but directs what ought to be, often found in ethical teachings, rules, or divine commands.

There is no declension chart applicable to this form, as it is not a noun or adjective. However, it is valuable to see the imperative forms for different persons:

Click here for a beginner’s guide to reading Greek.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: ἔστω is defined as “let him/her/it be” and is primarily used in contexts where a command or permission is given. BDAG notes its usage in the New Testament to emphasize moral or ethical exhortations, particularly in instructions from Jesus or the Apostles.

Thayer’s: Lists ἔστω as an imperative form meaning “let it be” or “it should be.” Thayer’s highlights its frequent use in commandments and recommendations in the New Testament, emphasizing its role in guiding the behavior and attitudes of believers.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Points out that ἔστω is often used in the New Testament to establish conditions or expectations for Christian conduct. Vine’s indicates that it is commonly found in passages that delineate the desired state or attitude of believers.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): Offers a broad definition of ἔστω as “let it be,” commonly seen in Classical Greek as well as Koine Greek. LSJ highlights its use in formal commands or decrees in legal, philosophical, and rhetorical texts, where the speaker seeks to establish a rule or guideline.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Defines ἔστω as “let him/her/it be,” noting its importance in conveying imperatives in the New Testament. Strong’s emphasizes its role in contexts where divine or apostolic authority is setting behavioral or doctrinal standards.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 5:37: “But let your statement be, ‘Yes, yes’ or ‘No, no’; anything beyond these is of evil.” (ἔστω)
• Romans 3:4: “May it never be! Rather, let God be found true, though every man be found a liar, as it is written, ‘That You may be justified in Your words, And prevail when You are judged.'” (ἔστω)
• 1 Corinthians 14:28: “But if there is no interpreter, he must keep silent in the church; and let him speak to himself and to God.” (ἔστω)

These verses illustrate how ἔστω is used to command or direct specific actions or attitudes in various contexts.

Classical Usage

Septuagint Examples:

Summary of ἔστω (G2077)

In summary, ἔστω (estō) is a Greek verb form meaning “let him/her/it be,” specifically in the third person singular present imperative. This form is essential in the New Testament and classical Greek literature for issuing commands, instructions, or permissions regarding a state of being. Understanding the usage of ἔστω is crucial for interpreting key ethical teachings, divine instructions, and directives in both the Bible and ancient Greek texts. It underscores the importance of recognizing the imperative mood in Greek for comprehending the intended actions or attitudes prescribed by authoritative figures.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the imperative form ἔστω (estō) is pivotal in expressing divine commands and moral imperatives in the New Testament? For example, in the Lord’s Prayer, the phrase “Your will be done” (Matthew 6:10) employs a similar imperative structure to express a desire for God’s authority and will to manifest on Earth as it is in Heaven. Understanding these commands in Greek reveals the strength and urgency behind the Biblical text’s teachings and divine exhortations.