← G2538 G2540 →

καίπερ

kaíper

G2539 coordinating conjunction

SILEX Entry

Root καί- and, also; emphatic particle (per)

Definition

A conjunction introducing a concessive clause, meaning 'although, even though, though,' indicating that the statement in the subordinate clause is true in spite of the main clause. It is used to express contrast or concession, suggesting that one fact is granted or admitted, yet another statement follows which might be seen as in tension or contrast with the first.

Semantic Range

although, even though, though, and yet, albeit, nevertheless, notwithstanding

Root / Etymology

Compound of the conjunction καί ('and, even') and the enclitic particle περ, which adds emphasis or a concessive sense; the combination functions adjectivally or adverbially to introduce concessive clauses.

Historical & Contextual Notes

In both Classical and Koine Greek, καίπερ is a formal conjunction, generally used to introduce concessive circumstances: that is, it yields the sense 'although' or 'even though.' In the New Testament and Hellenistic literature, it frequently precedes a participle—καίπερ + participle form—although it may also introduce full subordinate clauses. Its use is largely unchanged from Classical to Koine periods, but is more limited in later prose. It is not a synonym for simple connective conjunctions like δέ or καί; rather, its force is concessive and often best rendered in English with 'although,' 'even though,' or sometimes 'and yet.' English Bible translations often render it as 'although,' but at times 'and yet' or 'nevertheless' to highlight adversative nuance. The sense is primarily logical rather than temporal or causal. No significant theological or sociocultural nuances attach to its use.

Original Strong's Gloss (1890)

from καί and περ; and indeed, i.e. nevertheless or notwithstanding:--and yet, although.

Root Family

καίπερ (kaiper) — although, even though, though, and yet, nevertheless

Word Forms

1 distinct form

SIDANCE Surface Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1 Occurrences
G2539-01 καίπερ kaiper CONJ though even though 5

Occurrences in Scripture

5 total occurrences

SIDANCE Reference Word Transliteration Morphology Common SIBI-P1
G2539-01 Philippians 3:4 καίπερ kaiper CONJ although even though
G2539-01 Hebrews 5:8 καίπερ kaiper CONJ even though
G2539-01 Hebrews 7:5 καίπερ kaiper CONJ even though
G2539-01 Hebrews 12:17 καίπερ kaiper CONJ though even though
G2539-01 2 Peter 1:12 καίπερ kaiper CONJ though even though
← G2538 Greek Lexicon G2540 →