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Unveiling the Word

Understanding Greek words is crucial for biblical studies because it reveals the deeper meanings and contexts often hidden in translations. The Greek word κεῖμαι (keimai) is particularly significant as it appears frequently in the New Testament and conveys a range of meanings associated with “lying” or “being situated.” Its usage is not only relevant to New Testament interpretation but also offers insight into ancient Greek culture and language, where it was used to describe the state or position of objects, people, and even abstract concepts.

Necessary Information

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The Greek word is κεῖμαι, transliterated as keimai and pronounced [KEE-mai]. This verb generally means “to lie,” “to be placed,” or “to be laid out.” It is often used to describe a physical position or state of rest.

The etymology of κεῖμαι comes from the Proto-Indo-European root kei-, meaning “to lie” or “to set down.” This root is also related to the Latin word cubo (I lie down) and the Sanskrit śayati (he lies down).

κεῖμαι is a verb in the present passive voice and middle voice in Greek grammar. It functions as a deponent verb, which means it appears in the middle or passive form but has an active meaning. It is an irregular verb that follows its own unique pattern rather than fitting into typical conjugation classes.

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Defining Meanings

The first primary meaning of κεῖμαι is “to lie down” or “to be laid out,” which describes the state of an object or person resting in a horizontal position. This meaning is often used for people lying down, objects placed on surfaces, or bodies lying in repose.

The second meaning is “to be situated” or “to be set,” used metaphorically to describe something being established or fixed in a certain place or context. For example, this usage can refer to a city or a specific geographical feature.

The third meaning of κεῖμαι extends to “to be appointed” or “to be destined,” where it indicates a predetermined or designated role or outcome. This usage is especially relevant in theological contexts where certain events or actions are described as being “set” or “ordained” by God.

Exploring Similar Words

τίθημι (tithēmi) [TEE-thay-mee]: This word means “to place” or “to set” and is often used to describe an active placing or positioning of something. Unlike κεῖμαι, which is more about being in a state of rest, τίθημι focuses on the action of placing.

κάθημαι (kathēmai) [KAH-thay-mai]: Meaning “to sit” or “to be seated,” this word differs from κεῖμαι by describing a seated position rather than a lying or resting one. It is more about sitting in a position of readiness or rest.

ἵστημι (histēmi) [HIS-tay-mee]: This verb means “to stand” or “to set up.” It contrasts with κεῖμαι as it refers to an upright position rather than lying down.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a deponent verb, κεῖμαι functions in the middle or passive voice with an active meaning. Here is a breakdown of its forms in the Present Indicative:

This table shows that κεῖμαι has an irregular form, and its conjugation does not follow the standard patterns seen in other Greek verbs. It is used in various voices and tenses, including imperfect, perfect, and aorist forms, to convey the idea of “being” in a specific state or position.

For more on Greek verbs and their conjugations, Click here for a beginners guide to reading Greek.

Studying Lexicon Insights

κεῖμαι is noted in biblical lexicons for its broad range of uses, both literal and metaphorical. In the New Testament, it is often used to describe people or things lying down, such as Jesus lying in a manger or Lazarus in a tomb. Its metaphorical use extends to expressing theological ideas like being “appointed” to salvation or destruction. The word’s flexibility in describing states, conditions, and ordained purposes makes it crucial in theological discussions, especially concerning predestination and divine sovereignty. In classical Greek literature, κεῖμαι is used similarly to indicate lying down, but it also has nuances related to being situated or destined, which later Christian writers would adapt for spiritual contexts.

This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.

Tracing Related Scriptures

In Luke 2:12, it reads, “And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying [κεῖμαι] in a manger.” Here, κεῖμαι is used to describe Jesus’ physical position in the manger, highlighting the humble circumstances of His birth.

In 1 Corinthians 3:11, it states, “For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid [κεῖται], which is Jesus Christ.” This use of κεῖμαι metaphorically indicates something firmly established or set.

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word κεῖμαι is a versatile verb with broad applications, from describing a physical position to indicating something established or ordained. Its relevance spans from everyday contexts in ancient Greece to profound theological concepts in the New Testament. By examining κεῖμαι in its various uses, one gains a richer understanding of the New Testament’s language and its theological depth.

Did You Know?

κεῖμαι is frequently used in legal and philosophical texts to describe foundational principles or laws that are “set” or “established.”

The word is also employed in the Septuagint to convey rest, peace, or even death, often implying a state of finality or completeness.

In ancient Greek literature, κεῖμαι is found in various forms of writing, from epic poetry to philosophical dialogues, underscoring its fundamental role in the Greek language.