Brief Overview of ἆρα (G687: ára)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: ára

Root Words:

• The word ἆρα is an interrogative particle used in Greek.

Primary Meanings:

• Interrogative Particle: Used to introduce a question or an inquiry.
• Expectation of Answer: Indicates a question that expects an answer or confirmation.

In Greek, ἆρα is typically employed to introduce questions, often seeking clarification or confirmation. It functions similarly to “is it not?” or “then” in English, and is used to elicit a response or indicate the speaker’s expectation of a reply.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG describes ἆρα as an interrogative particle that introduces questions, typically expecting a confirmation or an answer. It is used to seek clarification or elicit a response based on the context of the preceding statements.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon defines ἆρα as a particle used to introduce questions, especially those expecting a response or affirmation.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary notes that ἆρα is used in Greek to introduce questions that anticipate an answer or confirmation, functioning as a particle in interrogative contexts.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon lists ἆρα as an interrogative particle that indicates a question or seeks confirmation, used to solicit a response or clarification.

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Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἆρα as a particle used in questions to expect or seek an answer or confirmation, similar to “is it not?” in English.

Bible Verses:

• Matthew 12:27 (KJV): “And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges.”
• In this context, ἆρα is implied in the rhetorical question about casting out devils.
• Luke 22:48 (KJV): “But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?”
• The question posed by Jesus reflects the use of ἆρα in questioning the act of betrayal.
• John 8:46 (KJV): “Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?”
• The interrogative nature of the question reflects the usage of ἆρα in seeking an answer or affirmation.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, ἆρα is used primarily as an interrogative particle:

• Sophocles uses ἆρα in plays to introduce questions seeking confirmation or responses from characters.
• Euripides employs ἆρα in dialogues to express inquiries or elicit answers from other characters.
• Aristotle includes ἆρα in philosophical texts to pose questions that seek clarification or verification.

4. Summary:

The Greek word ἆρα (G687: ára) functions as an interrogative particle meaning “is it not?” or “then,” used to introduce questions or seek confirmation. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ highlight its role in eliciting responses or clarifications. In biblical and classical Greek literature, ἆρα is employed to pose questions and solicit answers, reflecting its use as a particle in interrogative contexts.