The meaning of “εἶναι”
Understanding eînai reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
present infinitive from εἰμί am, was. - to exist
εἶναι
present infinitive from εἰμί am, was. - to exist
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 19:21 | “Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.” Word: εἶναι (eînai) | |
| Acts 17:7 | “Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Cesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.” Word: εἶναι (eînai) | |
| Galatians 4:21 | “Tell me, ye that desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?” Word: εἶναι (eînai) | |
| 1 Timothy 3:2 | “A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;” Word: εἶναι (eînai) | |
| James 1:26 | “If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man’s religion is vain.” Word: εἶναι (eînai) |