Unveiling the Word

The Greek word λοιπόν (loipon), first appearing in Matthew 26:45, plays a crucial role in the New Testament, particularly in signaling a transition or conclusion within a discussion or narrative. It is often translated as “from now on,” “therefore,” or “finally,” depending on the context. Understanding λοιπόν is essential for grasping the flow of New Testament texts, as it frequently introduces shifts in argument or narrative emphasis. In ancient Greek culture, such transitional words were used to guide the listener through discourse or speech, marking moments of conclusion or summation.

Necessary Information

Greek Word: λοιπόν (loipon), [pronunciation: loy-PON].

Etymology: The word λοιπόν derives from the verb leipō (λείπω), meaning “to leave” or “to remain.” It is related to the adjective λοιπός (loipos), which means “remaining” or “the rest,” indicating that something is left behind after others have been addressed or taken away.

Part of Speech: Adverb. In most of its occurrences, λοιπόν is used as an adverb to indicate transition, a concluding statement, or a change in focus. It can also appear as an interjection or conjunction when used in an imperative sense, signaling a call to action or conclusion.

The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Defining Meanings

1. “From Now On” or “Henceforth”: In some contexts, λοιπόν implies a shift in time or circumstance, indicating that something will follow after what has been mentioned. In Matthew 26:45, Jesus uses it to signify that His time of prayer and preparation is over, and what comes next—His betrayal—will now unfold.
2. “Therefore” or “Thus”: It can also be used to signal a conclusion or result of what was previously discussed. This usage is common in both classical Greek and the New Testament, where λοιπόν draws a conclusion from prior arguments or events.
3. “Finally”: In certain passages, λοιπόν marks the final point in a series, used particularly in epistolary literature like Paul’s letters, where it introduces the closing thoughts or exhortations.

Exploring Similar Words

1. δή (dē) [pronunciation: day]: Another adverb used to signal conclusion or emphasis, often translated as “now” or “indeed,” but with a stronger sense of urgency or emphasis.
2. οὖν (oun) [pronunciation: oon]: This is often translated as “therefore” or “so,” and, like λοιπόν, signals a conclusion or logical result, but it is used more frequently in argumentative or explanatory contexts.
3. ἐπίλοιπος (epiloipos) [pronunciation: ep-ee-LOY-pos]: A compound word, meaning “remaining” or “left over.” Though related to λοιπόν, it more directly refers to what is left behind in a physical or material sense.

Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

Since λοιπόν functions primarily as an adverb, it does not have declensions like nouns or adjectives. Its usage is tied to its function within the sentence, typically modifying the verb or the overall flow of discourse. However, as it is derived from the adjective λοιπός (loipos), which means “remaining,” it shares the root and retains its sense of something left or resulting from prior events.

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Studying Lexicon Insights

According to BDAG, λοιπόν typically serves as a transitional marker within discourse, used to introduce concluding remarks or to mark a significant change in focus. Thayer’s Lexicon adds that λοιπόν often signals that the previous narrative or discussion has been sufficiently covered, and now attention shifts to the next important matter. LSJ traces its usage back to classical Greek, where it served a similar purpose in speeches or rhetorical structures, marking the transition from argument to summation. Vine’s notes that its use in the New Testament often serves to bring the reader’s attention to the final, important thought or action. Strong’s highlights its commonality in epistles, where it frequently introduces final exhortations or conclusions.

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

Tracing Related Scriptures

1. Matthew 26:45: “Then he came to the disciples and said to them, ‘Sleep and take your rest later on ([λοιπόν]). See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.'”
2. Philippians 3:1: “Finally ([λοιπόν]), my brothers, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you is no trouble to me and is safe for you.”
3. 2 Corinthians 13:11: “Finally ([λοιπόν]), brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace.”

Analyzing Classical Usage

Noteworthy Summary

The Greek word λοιπόν (loipon), primarily used as an adverb, carries significant weight in New Testament discourse as a transitional marker. It serves to indicate that something is about to conclude or change, guiding the reader or listener through shifts in narrative or argument. With its roots in the verb “to leave,” λοιπόν functions as a signal of what remains to be addressed or what must follow. Its usage is particularly important in epistles and exhortations, helping to bring discussions to a close or to shift the focus to final actions or thoughts.

Did You Know?

• Fact 1: λοιπόν is used in classical Greek to mark key transitions in philosophical arguments, often introducing concluding thoughts.
• Fact 2: The word frequently appears in the final exhortations of Paul’s letters, making it a staple of New Testament epistolary style.
• Fact 3: λοιπόν can be found in rhetorical speeches from the classical era, guiding listeners through changes in argument or topic.