G4220
πότερον
interrogative as adverb, which (of two), i.e. is it this or that
Transliteration
póteronPronunciation
(pot'-er-on)Everything you need to know.
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interrogative as adverb, which (of two), i.e. is it this or that
πότερον(póteron)
Strong’s Definition
interrogative as adverb, which (of two), i.e. is it this or that
neuter of a comparative of the base of G4226 (ποῦ);
“If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.”
No verses found containing this word study ID.
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.
N - Necessary Information
Etymology:
D - Defining Meanings
Translation Options:
E - Exploring Similar Words
R - Reviewing the Word's Morphology
As an interrogative particle, πότερον:
Cross-references:
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.
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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?
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