εἴ περ
eí per
G1512
SILEX Entry
Definition
Conditional particle combining 'if' (εἰ) with an enclitic emphatic (πέρ), forming a phrase meaning 'if indeed,' 'if really,' or 'if at least.' Primarily marks a condition assumed for the sake of argument, emphasizing the contingency or strength of the supposition; often with the sense 'if really' or 'assuming that.' May introduce a premise for further reasoning or express uncertainty, sometimes with a shade of expectation or rhetorical force.
Semantic Range
if indeed, if really, if at least, assuming that, if so be, if perhaps; in argumentation, marks a presumption for the sake of reasoning, sometimes concessive
Root / Etymology
From εἰ ('if') + περ (enclitic particle giving emphasis or concessive nuance). The use of περ after particles and conjunctions to intensify their meaning is common in Greek. The combination forms a strengthened conditional phrase.
Historical & Contextual Notes
In classical and Hellenistic Greek, εἴ περ regularly appears in conditional sentences or clauses to strengthen the contingency or to press the reality/seriousness of the condition. It often distinguishes itself from simple εἰ by rendering the conditional more decisive or less hypothetical, sometimes bordering on concessive ('if indeed,' 'if at least,' or 'even if'). In the Septuagint and New Testament, it commonly introduces assumptions for argumentation or to reinforce previously stated truths, but still carries a nuance of uncertainty or openness. English translations often render it 'if indeed,' 'if really,' but traditional renderings like 'though,' 'seeing,' or 'if so be' do not always capture its force. Not interchangeable with εἴ γε, which can bear stronger assurance ('if indeed, as is the case').
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from εἰ and περ; if perhaps:--if so be (that), seeing, though.
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.