Introduction

Understanding Greek words is crucial in Biblical studies because it allows us to see the nuances and depth of meaning in the original texts. The word ἤτω (hētō), found in the New Testament, is particularly significant as it appears in contexts involving commands or instructions. This word’s study provides insight into the grammatical and syntactical choices of ancient Greek writers and deepens our understanding of Biblical interpretation and ancient Greek culture.

Key Information

• The Greek Word: ἤτω (hētō), pronounced [HAY-toh].
• Etymology: Derived from the verb εἰμί (eimi), meaning “to be,” combined with the imperative mood for expressing a command or instruction.
• Part of Speech: Verb (third person singular imperative form). It is used to give a command or an instruction for a state of being or action to occur.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Let it be: Used to express a command or instruction that something should occur or be allowed to happen.
• Let him be: Directing that an action be permitted or commanded in a more personal context.

Similar Words: ἤτω (hētō) is similar to γένοιτο (genoito), pronounced [geh-NOY-toh], which is another imperative form meaning “let it be” or “may it happen.” While ἤτω is a simple command, γένοιτο often carries a sense of wish or desire. Another related word is ἐστω (estō), pronounced [ES-toh], which also means “let it be” or “let it happen,” but it is often used in different contexts or with different nuances.

Further Insights: ἤτω (hētō) is a third person singular imperative form derived from the verb εἰμί (eimi). This form is relatively rare in Koine Greek, appearing in contexts where a strong command or directive is issued, often with a tone of authority or divine mandate. Below is the imperative declension of εἰμί (eimi) in the present tense:

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Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The BDAG lexicon explains ἤτω (hētō) as an imperative form of εἰμί (eimi), meaning “let it be” or “let him be,” used to give a command or instruction. It is generally employed in a context where something is permitted or ordered to happen.

Thayers: Thayer’s Lexicon describes ἤτω (hētō) as an imperative used primarily in authoritative contexts, particularly when a directive is issued in a third person singular form. It is an archaic form that appears in formal or legalistic settings in Greek texts.

Vines: Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes that ἤτω (hētō) is a simple imperative that expresses a command or allowance. It is often found in phrases that denote a state of being that must be maintained or initiated, often linked with divine or authoritative instructions.

LSJ: The Liddell-Scott-Jones Lexicon covers ἤτω (hētō) as an older or more classical imperative form, emphasizing its use in literature where commands are issued. It is noted that this form is rare in later Greek texts but still appears in specific commands in both secular and sacred literature.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s Concordance lists ἤτω (hētō) as G2277 and highlights its imperative nature. It provides the primary translation as “let it be” or “let him be,” emphasizing the word’s function in issuing directives or commands in scripture.

Related Scripture References

• Matthew 5:37: “But let [ἤτω] your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’; for whatever is more than these is from the evil one.”
  (Here, ἤτω is used to command the simplicity and clarity of speech, ensuring that one’s word is true without need for oaths or embellishment.)
• Romans 13:1: “Let every soul be subject [ἤτω] to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.”
  (In this context, ἤτω emphasizes submission and obedience to authority as a divine command.)

Classical Usage

Summary of ἤτω (G2277: hētō)

The Greek word ἤτω (hētō) is a third person singular imperative form, derived from the verb εἰμί (eimi), meaning “to be.” It is used in Biblical and classical Greek literature to issue commands or instructions, particularly with an authoritative or divine tone. This word’s study reveals insights into the imperative forms of ancient Greek, showing how language was employed to command, permit, or declare actions or states of being in both secular and sacred contexts.

Did You Know?

• ἤτω (hētō) is a relatively rare form in Koine Greek, appearing mainly in formal commands or authoritative contexts.
• The use of ἤτω in New Testament writings often implies divine authority, instructing believers to adhere to a particular moral or spiritual principle.
• In classical Greek, ἤτω is frequently found in philosophical and legal texts, where commands or directives are issued to convey essential principles or rules.

This overview of ἤτω (hētō) demonstrates its importance in Biblical and classical Greek contexts, providing both a linguistic and theological understanding of its usage.