Brief Overview of εἶ (Strong’s G1488: eî)

Introduction:

In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek language is crucial for interpreting the New Testament accurately. One of the most fundamental yet significant words in Greek is εἶ (eî), the second person singular present indicative form of the verb “to be” (εἰμί). This simple verb form is essential for constructing sentences that convey existence, identity, and relationship. Understanding εἶ is important not only for its grammatical function but also for its theological implications, particularly in statements made by Jesus and in the epistles, where identity and being are central themes.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: εἶ (eî) [EE]
• Etymology: Derived from the verb εἰμί (eimí), meaning “to be” or “to exist.”
• Part of Speech: Verb (second person singular present indicative)
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• You are
• Exist in the present

Similar Words:

• εἰμί (eimí) [ee-MEE]: The first person singular present indicative form, meaning “I am.”
• ἔστιν (éstin) [ES-tin]: The third person singular present indicative form, meaning “he/she/it is.”
• γίνομαι (gínomai) [GHEE-no-my]: A related verb that can also mean “to become” or “to come into being,” but with a different nuance emphasizing change or coming into existence.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• εἶ is the second person singular form of the present indicative of εἰμί. As such, it directly addresses the subject (“you”), making it integral in personal statements or direct addresses.
• As a part of the paradigm of εἰμί, εἶ follows the regular conjugation pattern typical of Greek present indicative verbs.

Lexicon Insights:

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BDAG:
BDAG describes εἶ as the second person singular present indicative form of the verb “to be.” It is used extensively throughout the New Testament in statements that express identity, existence, and relationship, such as in declarations by Jesus or in the epistles.

Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon highlights the importance of εἶ in conveying direct statements of being, often in contexts where the speaker is addressing another individual directly. It is a fundamental form that underlies much of the New Testament’s theology of identity and existence.

Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary emphasizes the theological significance of εἶ in the New Testament, particularly in passages where Jesus uses the verb to express profound truths about Himself and His relationship with the Father and humanity.

LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones):
The LSJ lexicon traces the use of εἶ back to classical Greek, where it functioned similarly as a basic form of the verb “to be,” essential for all manner of discourse, from everyday conversation to philosophical discussion.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s Concordance lists εἶ as the second person singular present indicative of εἰμί, noting its role in constructing fundamental statements about identity and existence in the New Testament.

Scripture References:

• Matthew 16:16: “Simon Peter replied, ‘You (εἶ) are the Christ, the Son of the living God.'”
• John 18:37: “Then Pilate said to him, ‘So you (εἶ) are a king?’ Jesus answered, ‘You say that I am a king.'”
• Romans 2:17: “But if you (εἶ) call yourself a Jew and rely on the law and boast in God…”

Classical Usage:

Summary of εἶ (G1488: eî)

The Greek word εἶ (eî) is a fundamental verb form in the New Testament, representing the second person singular present indicative of “to be.” This word is pivotal in conveying statements of identity, existence, and relationship, often used in key theological declarations. Understanding εἶ is essential for interpreting dialogues and teachings in the New Testament, where the word often carries significant implications about the nature of Christ, His followers, and their relationship with God. While εἶ is simple in form, its usage is central to many profound Biblical truths.

Did You Know?

The word εἶ (eî) in Greek is comparable to the English “you are,” making it one of the most frequently used verbs in both everyday conversation and formal discourse in ancient Greek. In the New Testament, its use is often loaded with meaning, especially in passages where Jesus defines His identity or relationship with others. The simplicity of the word belies its profound significance in the theology and narrative of the New Testament.