G3768
Unveiling the Word
The Greek word οὔπω (oupō) translates to “not yet,” indicating a negation concerning time or occurrence. This term is significant in biblical texts, particularly in the New Testament, where it emphasizes the idea that something has not happened up to the present moment but may still happen in the future. Its usage often conveys a sense of expectation, illustrating the anticipation of future events or the fulfillment of promises. The etymology of οὔπω derives from the negation οὐ (ou), meaning “not,” combined with πῶς (pōs), which relates to the concept of “how” or “in what manner.” This combination effectively communicates the notion of something that has not yet come to pass, making it a valuable term in discussions about faith and prophecy.
Necessary Information
Greek Word: οὔπω (oupō) [oo-poh]
Etymology: The term is composed of οὐ (ou), a strong negation meaning “not,” and πῶς (pōs), which suggests a condition of being or manner. The combination indicates an absence of occurrence at the present time.
Join the coffee club to enjoy an ad-free experience and add your voice to this discussion.
Part of Speech: Adverb.
The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.
Defining Meanings
The primary meanings of οὔπω include:
Not yet: The most straightforward meaning, indicating that something has not occurred up to the present time but may still happen.
Still not: This phrase emphasizes that the event or condition is ongoing in its absence, reinforcing the idea of a delay.
Awaiting fulfillment: This connotation suggests a hopeful anticipation for something to happen in the future, particularly in spiritual or prophetic contexts.
Exploring Similar Words
οὐκ (ouk) (ouk) [ook]: This word translates as “not” and serves as a basic negation, but it does not specifically relate to time, unlike οὔπω, which emphasizes an ongoing situation.
ποτέ (poté) (poté) [poh-teh]: Meaning “ever” or “at any time,” this word is often used in positive contexts, contrasting with the negative aspect of οὔπω, which focuses on what has not occurred.
ἔτι (eti) (eti) [eh-tee]: Meaning “still,” this word can imply continuation in a state but does not carry the temporal negation that οὔπω does.
Reviewing the Word’s Morphology
For Adverbs:
The morphological features of οὔπω indicate it is an adverb that does not change form based on case, number, or gender. It consistently expresses temporal negation, providing clarity in statements about expectations or events yet to come.
Studying Lexicon Insights
A synthesis of insights from various Greek lexicons reveals that οὔπω plays an important role in the New Testament, particularly in contexts of prophecy and the teachings of Jesus. It emphasizes the anticipation of fulfillment and the promise of things to come. Theologically, this word underscores the notion of waiting with hope, as believers are often called to trust in God’s timing. Its presence in scriptural texts invites readers to consider the nature of faith and expectation in the Christian life, as it highlights the ongoing process of spiritual growth and the anticipation of divine action. The use of οὔπω also reflects the broader themes of delay and promise found throughout the Scriptures.
This overview synthesizes insights from BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, Vine’s, Strong’s, LEH, and Moulton and Milligan.
Tracing Related Scriptures
Matthew 15:17: “Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled? [οὔπω]”
John 7:30: “So they were seeking to arrest him, but no one laid a hand on him, because his hour had not yet come. [οὔπω]”
Romans 8:24: “For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees? [οὔπω]”
Analyzing Classical Usage
In classical Greek literature, οὔπω appears in various contexts emphasizing the ongoing absence of an event or state.
Example 1: Plato, Phaedo: “The soul is not yet [οὔπω] ready to depart from the body until it has achieved true knowledge.”
Example 2: Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics: “The moral virtue of a man is not yet [οὔπω] fully realized until he has practiced it over time.”
Example 3: Thucydides, History of the Peloponnesian War: “The truth of our situation is not yet [οὔπω] apparent, as events continue to unfold.”
Septuagint Example 1: Isaiah 40:30: “Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; [οὔπω]”
Septuagint Example 2: Jeremiah 31:34: “And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord:’ for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more. [οὔπω]”
Septuagint Example 3: Psalm 118:25: “Save us, we pray, O Lord! O Lord, we pray, give us success! [οὔπω]”
Noteworthy Summary
The Greek word οὔπω conveys a powerful message of anticipation and temporal negation, underscoring its role in biblical narratives and theological discussions about faith, hope, and the fulfillment of divine promises.
Did You Know?
1. The term οὔπω is often used in prophetic contexts to emphasize that certain events have not yet occurred, reinforcing the importance of waiting with hope.
2. Its construction allows for clear communication about the expectations and promises in both spiritual and temporal realms.
3. In modern translations, οὔπω is typically rendered as “not yet,” maintaining its significance in indicating ongoing anticipation.
Strong’s G3768: οὔπω (oupō) translates as “not yet,” emphasizing the absence of an occurrence while conveying anticipation for future fulfillment, especially in biblical contexts regarding faith and prophecy.
This page is made possible by the generosity of coffee club members. Your support keeps spiritual truth free and ad-free for all seekers of wisdom. Thank you and I would like to pray this blessing on you.