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ἐπειδήπερ

epeidḗper

G1895 subordinating conjunction

SILEX Entry

Root ἐπειδή- since, because, inasmuch as

Definition

Conjunction meaning 'since indeed,' used to introduce a reason, ground, or justification for what follows. It emphasizes the logical or causal connection between what precedes and the argument or explanation to be given. The word is typically employed to preface an explanation, rationale, or extended statement based on an accepted or self-evident premise.

Semantic Range

since indeed, inasmuch as, because, forasmuch as, given that; introduces a reason or justification

Root / Etymology

Formed from ἐπειδή ('since, because, inasmuch as') plus the enclitic particle περ (used for emphasis, meaning 'indeed' or 'at least'). The combination intensifies the causal sense: 'since indeed,' 'because in truth.'

Historical & Contextual Notes

ἐπειδήπερ is a rare and formal conjunction, found in literary Greek, including historical and rhetorical texts. It appears in Koine Greek as a strong causal connector, often at the beginning of a sentence to introduce the grounds for a longer argument or exposition, as in Luke 1:1. While sometimes rendered 'forasmuch as' in older English translations, this does not capture its full force; modern English equivalents may be 'since indeed' or 'in view of the fact that.' Its use suggests an assumption or premise accepted by both speaker and hearer, providing the foundation for what follows. Compared with ἐπεί ('since, because') and ἐπειδή ('since, as'), ἐπειδήπερ is more emphatic and formal. It persists in Classical Greek and is retained in polished or rhetorical Koine contexts, but is uncommon in everyday speech or narrative.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from ἐπειδή and περ; since indeed (of cause):--forasmuch.

Root Family

ἐπειδήπερ (epeidēper) — since, because, inasmuch as

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G1895-01 ἐπειδήπερ epeideper CONJ.S Forasmuch as since indeed 1

Occurrences in Scripture

1 total occurrence

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G1895-01 Luke 1:1 ἐπειδήπερ epeideper CONJ.S Forasmuch as since indeed
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