Introduction
Understanding Greek words like ἴσθι (isthi) is crucial for Biblical studies because it reveals deeper meanings that can be lost in translation. ἴσθι, with its roots in ancient Greek culture and language, holds significance in both New Testament interpretation and classical literature, offering valuable insights into how ideas of existence and being were understood.
Key Information
- The Greek Word: ἴσθι, transliterated as isthi [ees-thee].
- Etymology: Rooted in the Greek verb εἰμί (eimi), meaning “to be” or “to exist.”
- Part of Speech: Verb (Imperative mood)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Primary Meanings
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- Be (imperative)
- Exist
- Remain
Similar Words: εἰμί (eimi) [ei-mee], meaning “to be,” is closely related to ἴσθι. While εἰμί serves as the standard form of “to be,” ἴσθι is specifically the imperative form, instructing someone to “be” or “exist.”
Further Insights: The word ἴσθι is the imperative singular form of εἰμί, commonly used in commands or exhortations. It appears frequently in biblical texts to convey an instruction to “be” in a certain state or condition. This word shows different forms depending on tense and number, indicating its role in imperative expressions.
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Lexicon Insights
- BDAG: Defines ἴσθι as the imperative form of “to be,” used for giving commands or exhortations.
- Thayers: Notes its usage in the imperative, highlighting its function in biblical and classical contexts as an instruction to “be.”
- Vines: Discusses its translation in various contexts, primarily as an imperative directive.
- LSJ: Provides a range of usages in classical texts where ἴσθι conveys “existence” or “presence.”
- Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies ἴσθι as the imperative of εἰμί (G1510), “to be.”
Related Scripture References
- Matthew 5:48: “Be [ἴσθι] therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”
- Revelation 3:2: “Be [ἴσθι] watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die.”
- Philippians 3:1: “Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe [ἴσθι].”
Classical Usage
| Author | Name of Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Plato | Republic | “Know thyself and be true to your nature.” |
| Aristotle | Metaphysics | “To be is to be perceived.” |
| Xenophon | Memorabilia | “Always be mindful of your duties.” |
| Septuagint | Exodus 3:14 | “God said to Moses, ‘I AM [ἴσθι] who I AM.'” |
| Septuagint | Psalm 46:10 | “Be [ἴσθι] still, and know that I am God.” |
Summary of ἴσθι (G2468)
ἴσθι is an imperative verb form from the root εἰμί, meaning “to be” or “exist.” It is commonly used in both biblical and classical Greek literature to issue commands or exhortations, making it an important term for understanding ancient Greek thought and its impact on New Testament writings.
Did You Know?
Did you know that the word ἴσθι is frequently used in ancient Greek philosophy to convey the idea of “being” or “existence,” which is central to discussions about the nature of reality?
This overview highlights the significance of ἴσθι in Biblical and classical Greek, revealing its role in both spiritual and philosophical contexts.
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