Introduction

Understanding the Greek preposition εἰς (eis) is crucial for biblical studies, as it appears frequently in the New Testament and plays a vital role in conveying directional and relational meaning. This small but significant word influences the interpretation of various key passages, making it essential for both theological study and understanding the broader context of ancient Greek language and culture. The word εἰς is often used to indicate movement toward a place, state, or goal, and its usage spans a wide range of contexts, from physical locations to more abstract concepts like purpose or result.

Key Information

• Greek Word: εἰς (eis) [ice]
• Etymology: εἰς is derived from the Greek root ei, which is a basic preposition denoting direction or goal.
• Part of Speech: Preposition (not subject to declension)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings

• Into, towards, to: Indicating motion towards a place, person, or object.
• For, in order to: Used to show purpose or result, often translated as “for” or “in order to” in English.
• With respect to, regarding: In some contexts, it shows the relationship between subjects, akin to “regarding” or “concerning.”
• In, among: Used in specific constructions to indicate presence within a group or context.

Similar Words:

• πρός (pros) [pros]: Also a preposition meaning “towards” or “in the direction of,” but often with a sense of closeness or immediacy, more relational than εἰς.
• ἐν (en) [en]: Meaning “in” or “within,” ἐν is more about static location than the movement or direction indicated by εἰς.
• διά (dia) [dee-ah]: Meaning “through” or “by means of,” διά often indicates a process or medium rather than the directional or goal-oriented focus of εἰς.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• εἰς is an uninflected preposition, meaning it does not change form based on case, number, or gender of the nouns it governs.
• Usage in Sentences: εἰς is typically followed by an accusative noun, showing movement towards or into something. It often denotes a change of state or position, either physical, emotional, or situational.

Lexicon Insights

BDAG:
BDAG highlights εἰς as one of the most frequently occurring prepositions in the New Testament, noting its versatility in expressing direction, purpose, and result. It emphasizes its role in passages where movement towards a goal or entry into a state or condition is implied.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s Lexicon describes εἰς as a preposition indicating direction and purpose. It emphasizes the word’s ability to convey not only physical motion but also abstract transitions, such as changes in condition or status.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary notes that εἰς is foundational in understanding many key theological concepts in the New Testament, such as entering into a covenant or being baptized into Christ. It underscores the word’s importance in doctrinal passages.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
The LSJ lexicon focuses on the classical usage of εἰς, describing it as a versatile preposition used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. It is often found in ancient texts describing movement, intention, or direction.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists εἰς as a preposition meaning “to” or “into,” with a wide range of applications depending on context. It is one of the most commonly occurring words in the New Testament, with over 1,700 occurrences.

Scripture References:

• John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life (εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον).”
• Matthew 28:19: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in (εἰς) the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”

Classical Usage

Summary of εἰς (G1519: eis)

The Greek preposition εἰς (eis) is one of the most frequently encountered words in the New Testament, pivotal in conveying the direction, purpose, and result. Whether it’s describing physical movement, spiritual transitions, or relational goals, εἰς provides clarity and depth to biblical texts. Understanding its usage not only enhances one’s interpretation of Scripture but also sheds light on the linguistic and cultural practices of ancient Greek society, where directionality and purpose were central to communication.

Did You Know?

The preposition εἰς is not only foundational in biblical Greek but also in the formation of compound words. Many Greek words, especially those in the New Testament, incorporate εἰς as a prefix to indicate purpose or direction, further showcasing its importance in the Greek language.