Brief Overview of περί (Strong’s G4012: peri)

Strong’s G4012: A fundamental Greek preposition indicating “around,” “concerning,” or “about,” περί serves crucial functions in both spatial and abstract contexts. It frequently appears in New Testament discourse to introduce topics, express concern, or indicate surrounding circumstances, playing a vital role in theological expression.

U- Unveiling the Word

Περί fundamentally expresses the concept of surrounding or encompassing, both literally and figuratively. In New Testament usage, it transitions from purely spatial meanings (“around”) to more abstract applications (“concerning,” “about”). Theologically, it often introduces important doctrinal discussions, as in phrases like “concerning sin” or “about the kingdom.” The preposition carries significant weight in early Christian writings, where it helps articulate complex theological concepts. Its versatility in expressing both physical and conceptual relationships makes it invaluable for precise theological expression, remaining relevant in modern biblical interpretation and theological discourse.

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N – Necessary Information

• Greek Word: περί, peri, [peh-REE]
• Detailed pronunciation: peh-REE (stress on second syllable)
• Part of Speech: Preposition

Etymology:

• Proto-Indo-European *peri- (“around, about”)
• Related to Sanskrit pari
• Base form maintained throughout Greek development

D – Defining Meanings

• Around, about (spatial)
• Concerning, regarding (topical)
• On behalf of (representational)

For compound words: While not a compound itself, περί forms numerous compounds as a prefix, contributing the meaning of “around” or “concerning”

Translation Options:

1. Concerning – Best for topical discussions
2. About – General purpose usage
3. Around – Spatial relationships

E – Exploring Similar Words

• ὑπέρ [hyper, hoo-PEHR] – “over,” emphasizes superiority rather than surrounding
• ἀμφί [amphi, am-FEE] – “on both sides,” more specific than περί’s general “around”
• διά [dia, dee-AH] – “through,” differs in indicating penetration rather than surrounding

R – Reviewing the Word’s Morphology

As a preposition, περί:

• Takes either genitive or accusative case
• Affects the meaning of the object it governs
• Changes meaning based on case usage:
• With genitive: concerning, about
• With accusative: around, near

Related compound forms include περιάγω (lead around), περιβάλλω (throw around)

S – Studying Lexicon Insights

BDAG emphasizes περί’s dual usage with genitive and accusative cases. Thayer’s notes its progression from spatial to abstract meanings. LSJ provides extensive classical examples. Vine’s highlights its theological significance. Strong’s emphasizes its basic meaning of “all around.” Moulton and Milligan demonstrate its common usage in everyday Koine Greek.

T – Tracing the Scriptures

First appearance:

“He sent them to Bethlehem and said, ‘Go and search carefully [concerning] the child.'” (Matthew 2:8)

Additional References:
Matthew 4:6, Mark 1:44, Luke 2:27, John 15:26, Acts 1:1, Romans 8:3

A – Analyzing Classical Usage

N – Noteworthy Summary

Περί’s versatility in expressing both physical and conceptual relationships makes it crucial for understanding New Testament theology. Its use in phrases like “concerning Christ” and “about the kingdom” helps articulate the gospel message. This preposition reminds us that the good news of King Jesus encompasses and surrounds every aspect of our lives, just as περί indicates complete encirclement.

D – Did You Know?

1. Περί appears in numerous scientific terms (perimeter, periodic, periphery)
2. It’s one of the most frequently used prepositions in the New Testament
3. Its usage patterns often indicate the focus of major theological discussions

Strong’s G4012: Primary Greek preposition indicating surrounding, encompassing, or concerning. Essential for both spatial and abstract relationships in New Testament Greek. Frequently used to introduce theological topics and express comprehensive relationships. Critical for understanding biblical context and meaning.

Part of speech: Preposition

Tags: #GreekGrammar #Preposition #BiblicalGreek #TheologicalTerms #NewTestament #GreekSyntax #BiblicalLanguage #Grammar #Koine #GreekPrepositions​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​