Brief Overview of πότερον (Strong’s G4220: poteron)

Strong’s G4220: An interrogative particle meaning “whether,” used to introduce alternative questions. In New Testament usage, appears uniquely in John 7:17 to pose a crucial question about the divine versus human origin of Jesus’ teaching. Indicates thoughtful discernment between options.

U- Unveiling the Word

Πότερον introduces a choice between alternatives, particularly in matters requiring spiritual discernment. In its sole New Testament appearance, it frames a fundamental question about the origin of Jesus’ teaching – whether it comes from God or from human wisdom. Early church writers used this term in apologetic contexts to help seekers discern truth. Today, it continues to highlight the importance of spiritual discernment in distinguishing divine truth from human wisdom.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: πότερον, poteron, PO-ter-on
• Detailed pronunciation: POH-ter-ohn (stress on first syllable)
• Part of Speech: Interrogative Particle

Etymology:

• From πότερος (which of two)
• Related to PIE *kwo- (interrogative stem)
• -τερος (-teros) comparative suffix

D – Defining Meanings

• Whether
• Which of two
• In alternative questions

Translation Options:

• “Whether” – formal equivalent
• “Which of the two” – more explicit
• “Is it… or” – natural English structure

E – Exploring Similar Words

• εἴτε (eite, EY-teh) – whether, if – See G1535
• ἤ (ē, AY) – or – See G2228
• μήποτε (mēpote, may-PO-teh) – lest perhaps – See G3379

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As an interrogative particle, πότερον:

• Is indeclinable
• Introduces first alternative
• Usually paired with ἤ (or)
• Neuter form of πότερος used adverbially

Cross-references:

• Related adjective: πότερος
• Used in indirect questions

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes its role in alternative questions. Thayer’s notes its classical precision. LSJ documents extensive dialectical usage. Vine’s highlights its deliberative force. Strong’s connects it to decision-making. LEH notes similar Septuagint constructions. Moulton and Milligan cite examples from legal documents.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:
John 7:17: “If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, [πότερον] whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”

Additional References:
This word appears only once in the New Testament, in John 7:17.

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Πότερον frames the crucial choice between divine and human wisdom. Its use in John’s Gospel challenges us to discern the source of teaching through obedient faith. This word reminds us that recognizing divine truth requires both spiritual discernment and willing obedience to God’s will.

D – Did You Know?

1. Classical philosophers frequently used this word in dialectical arguments.
2. Early Christian apologists adopted it for theological discussions.
3. The word influenced development of systematic theology methodology.

Strong’s G4220: An interrogative particle meaning “whether,” used to introduce alternative questions. In New Testament usage, appears uniquely in John 7:17 to pose a crucial question about the divine versus human origin of Jesus’ teaching. Indicates thoughtful discernment between options.

Part of speech: Interrogative Particle

Tags: discernment, choice, alternatives, wisdom, divine origin, Jesus’ teaching, John’s Gospel, spiritual understanding, truth, decision​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​