← G2442 G2444 →

ἵνα

hína

G2443 subordinating conjunction

SILEX Entry

Root uncertain to indicate purpose, to introduce result, to introduce content

Definition

Primary meaning: a subordinating conjunction introducing purpose, result, or content clauses—generally translated as 'in order that,' 'so that,' or 'that.' It marks a clause expressing purpose, intention, or expected result; can also introduce indirect statements or commands. Depending on context, may convey actual purpose (final sense), anticipated result, or reported content of speech or thought.

Semantic Range

to the end that, in order that, so that, that, for the purpose that, so as to, with the result that, in indirect commands, in indirect statements

Root / Etymology

From an early Greek demonstrative stem, etymologically uncertain. Possibly related to the pronominal stem ὁ-, but not transparently connected to ἑαυτοῦ or other pronouns. Its formation is native to Greek and not borrowed from another language.

Historical & Contextual Notes

ἵνα is rare in classical Greek, where purpose is more commonly expressed with ὅπως or ὡς. Usage expands in the Koine period, including the Septuagint and New Testament, often replacing classical final infinitives or other purpose clauses. In the New Testament and Septuagint, ἵνα frequently marks both purpose (final) and result (consecutive/resultative) clauses, especially with verbs of speaking, commanding, or desiring. In reported speech, ἵνα often introduces indirect commands or wishes. Its use in New Testament Greek is sometimes broader than its classical usage, functioning where classical Greek would use an infinitive or other expressions. English translations often render it as 'that,' but 'in order that' or 'so that' more fully reflects its purpose/result nuance. The negative form ἵνα μή introduces clauses expressing prevention or prohibition ('lest,' 'that...not'). The increased frequency and flexibility of ἵνα in Koine Greek marks an important feature of Hellenistic syntax.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

probably from the same as the former part of ἑαυτοῦ (through the demonstrative idea; compare ὁ); in order that (denoting the purpose or the result):--albeit, because, to the intent (that), lest, so as, (so) that, (for) to. Compare ἵνα μή.

Root Family

ἵνα (hina) — purpose marker, result marker, content introducer

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G2443-01 ἵνα ina CONJ.S that in order that 667

Occurrences in Scripture

667 total occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G2443-01 Matthew 1:22 ἵνα ina CONJ.S to fulfill in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 2:15 ἵνα ina CONJ.S that in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 4:3 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 4:14 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 5:29 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 5:30 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 7:1 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 7:12 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 8:8 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
G2443-01 Matthew 9:4 ἵνα ina CONJ.S in order that
← G2442 Greek Lexicon G2444 →