Introduction

Understanding Greek words is vital for Biblical studies as it enriches our comprehension of scriptural texts and provides deeper insight into ancient Greek culture. The Greek word ἐξάπινα (exápina) is particularly significant because it is used to describe sudden or unexpected events. This term appears in the New Testament in contexts that emphasize abruptness or immediacy, helping to convey urgency or surprise.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: ἐξάπινα, transliterated as exápina [ek-SAP-ee-nah]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek preposition ἐκ (ek, “out of”) and the adjective ἄπινα (ápina, “sudden”), conveying the sense of something happening suddenly or unexpectedly.
• Part of Speech: Adverb.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Suddenly.
• Unexpectedly.
• Without warning.

Similar Words: ἐξαίφνης (exaiphnes) [ek-SAY-fnees] – This word also means “suddenly” or “unexpectedly,” but it is more commonly used in both classical and biblical Greek to emphasize the unexpected nature of an event, often with an implication of surprise or immediacy.

Further Insights: The adverb ἐξάπινα emphasizes abruptness and can be found in contexts where an event occurs without prior warning. It is often used in descriptive narratives to underscore the suddenness of a situation or action, adding drama or urgency to the text.

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

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: Defines ἐξάπινα as “suddenly” or “unexpectedly,” primarily in contexts where an immediate or unforeseen event occurs, creating a sense of urgency or surprise.

Thayers: Explains ἐξάπινα as an adverb meaning “unexpectedly,” used to describe events or actions that occur without prior notice or preparation.

Vines: Focuses on the abrupt and unforeseen nature of events described by ἐξάπινα, particularly in narrative texts where a sudden change or action is emphasized.

LSJ: Notes that ἐξάπινα is commonly used in classical Greek literature to denote events that happen “all of a sudden,” often in dramatic or rhetorical contexts to heighten the impact of a statement or action.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Highlights ἐξάπινα as meaning “unexpectedly,” emphasizing its usage in both Biblical and classical Greek to describe sudden occurrences or shifts in narrative.

Related Scripture References

Classical Usage

Summary of ἐξάπινα (G1819: exápina)

The Greek word ἐξάπινα serves as a vivid adverb that conveys the idea of something happening suddenly or without warning. In Biblical contexts, it is used to describe unexpected events that often carry significant theological or narrative weight. In classical Greek literature, ἐξάπινα similarly emphasizes abruptness and surprise, adding drama and intensity to descriptions and dialogues. Understanding ἐξάπινα provides valuable insights into both New Testament texts and broader Greek literary traditions.

Did You Know?

The word ἐξάπινα is closely related to the modern English word “sudden” and can still be seen in its root meaning. In both ancient and modern contexts, it carries the connotation of speed and surprise, often marking crucial turning points or unexpected moments in narratives.