How Does Grammatical Structure Convey Meaning in Biblical Greek?

Grammatical structure serves as the foundation of understanding meaning within any language. In Koine Greek, the grammar rules determine the relationship between words, setting the framework for interpretation. While Greek learners might initially focus on mastering paradigms and syntactical rules, these forms are stepping stones toward a deeper goal: uncovering the message intended by the original writers of Scripture. To grasp the text’s full impact, it is essential to delve into the function of grammatical forms, as they hold significant interpretive weight within biblical passages.

Understanding Grammatical Meaning

Grammatical meaning refers to the information conveyed through the structural rules of a language. Unlike lexical meaning, which is found within individual words, grammatical meaning comes from how words interact within a sentence. This includes aspects like verb tense, case, and word order. Consider the two sentences in English: “Steve has played basketball” and “Steve is playing basketball.” Though nearly identical, the subtle change in verb tense shifts the meaning entirely, with one indicating a completed action and the other an ongoing one. This type of shift is critical in understanding Koine Greek, where even small grammatical differences can significantly affect interpretation.

The Role of Verb Tense

In Koine Greek, verb tense plays a central role in establishing the time and nature of an action. Tenses are more than mere time indicators; they also convey the type or aspect of the action. For instance, in John 19:30, “It is finished” (Greek: τετέλεσται) uses the perfect tense, emphasizing not only that the action is completed but that its effects are ongoing. The perfect tense here reflects the permanence of Jesus’ redemptive work, a nuance that deepens the theological significance of the text. Conversely, the use of the aorist tense might convey a simple, completed action without specifying duration or effect, as seen in Mark 4:39, when Jesus “rebuked the wind.” Each tense selection adds a specific layer of meaning that reveals the author’s intent.

Word Order and Emphasis

Unlike English, which relies heavily on word order to clarify subjects and objects, Koine Greek allows more flexibility in this area due to its case system. This flexibility enables Greek writers to adjust word order for emphasis or thematic focus. For instance, in John 1:1, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God,” the Greek places “God” in an emphatic position by moving it before the verb in the final clause. This construction highlights the divine nature of the “Word,” reinforcing the theological depth of the statement. Similarly, Philippians 1:21, “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain,” shows how Paul positions “Christ” prominently to stress its central importance to his life’s purpose.

Case Function and Meaning

In Greek, the cases (nominative, genitive, dative, accusative) contribute meaning by defining the role of nouns in a sentence. The genitive case often conveys possession, as in Matthew 26:28, “this is my blood of the covenant.” Here, “of the covenant” uses the genitive case to indicate the covenant’s association with Jesus’ blood. However, the genitive can also denote other relationships, such as source or type, depending on context. Understanding these subtle distinctions allows the reader to grasp the intended relationship between concepts within a passage.

The dative case similarly functions to indicate indirect objects, locations, or instruments. In Ephesians 2:8, “For by grace you have been saved through faith,” “by grace” (τῇ χάριτι) is in the dative, highlighting the means through which salvation is achieved. Grammatical meaning, therefore, goes beyond mere form to reveal the relationships that shape the author’s message.

The Impact of Particles on Meaning

Greek particles, though seemingly insignificant, can also alter the tone and emphasis within a sentence. Words like “ἄρα” (then, therefore) or “οὖν” (therefore) help indicate logical connections and can subtly shift the focus of a passage. In Romans 8:1, “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,” the word “therefore” signals a conclusion based on Paul’s previous argument, emphasizing the resulting assurance in the believer’s position before God. Recognizing these particles within the grammatical framework can clarify the flow of argumentation in the New Testament letters.

Understanding Grammatical Meaning to Uncover Scriptural Truth

Grammatical meaning forms a bridge between the structural rules of Greek and the conveyed message. When studying Koine Greek, learners move from grasping forms to uncovering the author’s intended meaning, a shift critical for faithful biblical interpretation. This understanding allows one to appreciate the nuances in Scripture, offering insight into the depth and precision of God’s Word. As Romans 15:4 states, “For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.” This encouragement is best understood when the grammatical intricacies are carefully considered, illuminating the message preserved in the original language.

How Do Lexical Meaning and Greek Dictionaries Aid in Understanding Biblical Greek?

Learning the lexical meaning of Greek words serves as a foundational step in interpreting biblical texts accurately. Lexical meaning is the core definition or set of definitions that a word possesses, distinct from the nuanced meaning that emerges through grammar or context. This knowledge is invaluable because understanding the precise meaning of a word as it was used in Koine Greek provides insight into the original writer’s intent, allowing us to bridge the language gap between the New Testament and modern readers. In this study, Greek dictionaries and lexicons become crucial tools for identifying and understanding the semantic range of words, helping readers grasp the intended message of Scripture.

Lexical Meaning: The Core of Word Study

Lexical meaning refers to the inherent definitions or basic meanings of words, often cataloged in dictionaries or lexicons. Lexemes—individual words or word stems—possess meanings that can vary widely depending on context. For example, the Greek word logos often means “word” (John 1:1), but it can also signify “reason,” “speech,” or “message” in different contexts. Understanding logos as “word” in John 1:1, “In the beginning was the Word,” allows the reader to appreciate the depth of its meaning, suggesting Jesus as both the divine communication from God and as His wisdom manifested to humanity.

The Semantic Range and Contextual Flexibility

Greek words often possess a semantic range, meaning a collection of possible meanings that differ by context. This concept is essential, as no single English word can always capture the entirety of a Greek word’s range. For instance, the Greek word agape signifies a profound, selfless love but does not fully align with the English “love,” which can denote a range of feelings, from affection to strong preference. In 1 John 4:8, where it states, “God is love,” agape conveys a unique, divine form of love rooted in self-sacrifice and benevolence, going beyond common human affection.

The New Testament frequently utilizes words that carry a broader or slightly different connotation than their English counterparts. Another example is doulos, often translated as “servant” or “slave.” While “slave” may carry modern negative connotations, doulos in its biblical context often emphasizes absolute loyalty and willing service to God, as seen in Romans 1:1, where Paul refers to himself as a “slave of Christ Jesus.”

Understanding Cultural Nuances in Word Meaning

Words in any language carry associations shaped by cultural context, and this was also true in first-century Greece. The word euche provides a case in point. While it can be translated as “prayer,” the Greek understanding included a notion of vows made to a deity, where a petitioner would promise something in return for divine favor. This idea of a “prayer” containing a vow was common in the ancient Mediterranean, as people made requests from gods in exchange for offerings. In the New Testament, however, prayer (proseuche) often carries a different emphasis, highlighting personal communion and reliance on Jehovah rather than contractual promises. By recognizing such distinctions, readers better understand the New Testament’s presentation of prayer, especially in passages like Philippians 4:6, where Paul writes, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

The Importance of Greek Dictionaries and Lexicons

Greek dictionaries, or lexicons, play a central role in Bible study by presenting Greek words alongside their possible meanings and typical uses. For instance, the lexicon entry for agapetos might include translations like “beloved” or “dear one,” offering a clear view of the word’s relational connotations. In Mark 1:11, God calls Jesus “my beloved Son” (ho agapetos mou huios), expressing a relationship marked by deep affection and approval. Here, “beloved” captures the divine approval and special status of Jesus, revealing the significance of the Father-Son relationship within the Godhead.

Lexicons, particularly those aligned with biblical Greek, distinguish between meanings by providing glosses—simple translations—and brief definitions. This approach allows a beginner to start with basic meanings and gradually build an understanding of the word’s full scope, learning to recognize appropriate translations based on context. For example, agapetos (beloved) does not change its core meaning across contexts, but its implications deepen when referring to Jesus or to believers, as seen in 1 John 3:2, “Beloved, we are God’s children now.”

Why Precision in Translation Matters

The reliance on glosses alone can sometimes lead to shallow or inaccurate translations. Greek words possess nuanced meanings that often need contextual interpretation. For instance, the word phileo may be rendered as “love” or “friendship,” depending on the setting. When Jesus asks Peter, “do you love me?” in John 21:15-17, different Greek terms for “love” (such as agape and phileo) appear, each with subtle implications. Agape reflects a deep, committed love, while phileo denotes friendship and affection. Recognizing this contrast enables readers to perceive the conversation’s depth, as Jesus emphasizes a committed form of love, guiding Peter to a greater understanding of spiritual devotion.

Dictionaries and lexicons that incorporate semantic ranges and examples from biblical Greek assist students in distinguishing between word meanings, enabling accurate interpretation. The meaning of a word, as well as the sentence it forms, is thus clarified, bringing out the theological truths embedded in the original text.

How Do Words Shape Meaning in Context?

In understanding Koine Greek, a foundational principle is that words do not function as isolated symbols with rigid meanings; instead, they convey meaning through context and usage. Language operates as a living system, adapting and evolving with time, culture, and social norms. This is especially relevant when interpreting the New Testament, where Greek words carry nuances influenced by the first-century context and Jewish culture. The objective in learning biblical Greek is to appreciate the original sense and intent conveyed by the Scriptures, moving beyond mere lexical definitions to understanding how each word interacts with others to shape meaning. In Koine Greek, recognizing a word’s semantic range, idiomatic use, and the dynamic interplay between words is crucial for accurate exegesis.

Why Do Words Hold Flexible Meanings?

Words function as “open symbols” that adapt and change over time. Their meanings are not static but shift based on usage and context. A word like “modern” is a prime example in English; it refers to what is current, yet the “current” period is always changing. Similarly, Greek words used in the New Testament could shift in meaning based on context or the cultural background of the speaker or writer.

For example, consider the Greek term mysterion, often translated as “mystery.” In English, “mystery” might imply something puzzling or unsolvable, but in the New Testament context, mysterion refers to a revealed truth once hidden, often a divine truth now disclosed through Christ’s ministry. Paul’s use of mysterion in Colossians 1:26-27, “the mystery that has been hidden from ages and generations, but has now been revealed to his saints,” refers to God’s redemptive plan through Jesus Christ—a truth once unknown but now accessible to believers. Here, “mystery” signifies a profound revelation, not an enigma.

This example highlights how Koine Greek vocabulary reflects cultural and religious assumptions. While Greek has universal linguistic qualities, the meanings of specific terms are deeply rooted in the experiences and perspectives of first-century writers and their audience. These subtle differences remind us to approach Koine Greek with an awareness that meaning often extends beyond the word itself to the context, authorial intent, and broader scriptural themes.

The Role of Idioms and Figurative Language

Every language possesses idiomatic expressions, where words or phrases convey meanings different from their literal interpretation. In Koine Greek, idioms are frequently employed, especially in narrative and epistolary genres, to communicate ideas with vividness or emphasis. For example, in Matthew 15:14, Jesus describes the religious leaders as “blind guides,” an idiom that conveys their spiritual inability to lead others correctly. The “blind” metaphor does not imply physical blindness but spiritual misguidance. By understanding idiomatic expressions, readers can better grasp the intended message rather than misinterpreting these phrases as literal statements.

Greek idioms also carry figurative meanings that draw from cultural practices or commonly understood analogies. In 1 Corinthians 9:24, Paul uses the idiom of “running the race” to describe the Christian life: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.” Here, the race symbolizes a life of faith and endurance. This metaphor would resonate deeply in a Greco-Roman context where athletic competitions, particularly foot races, were highly regarded and understood as requiring discipline and perseverance. Recognizing idiomatic phrases and metaphors helps clarify passages and strengthens our comprehension of biblical teaching by connecting it to the imagery familiar to its original audience.

Another unique idiom in Greek is found in John 6:35, where Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life.” Here, “bread” does not denote physical food alone but symbolizes spiritual sustenance essential for eternal life. Jesus’ statement uses a common, tangible item—bread—to express a profound spiritual truth. Understanding such idiomatic language is key to interpreting the depth of Jesus’ declarations, as His teachings often used simple, relatable images to communicate complex spiritual principles.

Semantic Range and Contextual Boundaries

Each Greek word possesses a semantic range, which includes various meanings that apply based on context. Recognizing the semantic range of a word enables readers to accurately interpret its intended meaning. For instance, the Greek word sarx typically means “flesh,” but depending on context, it can refer to literal physical flesh, human nature, or even the sinful aspect of humanity. In Galatians 5:16, Paul writes, “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Here, sarx represents sinful inclinations, contrasting life led by the Spirit with one dominated by human weakness and selfish desires. Without understanding the semantic range of sarx, readers might incorrectly interpret this term as a reference solely to the physical body.

Similarly, the term sozo, generally translated as “save” or “deliver,” carries a wide range of meanings in the New Testament. In some contexts, it signifies physical healing, as in Matthew 9:22 when Jesus tells the woman with a hemorrhage, “Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well.” Here, sozo refers to physical restoration. In other contexts, it conveys spiritual salvation, as seen in Romans 10:9, “if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.” Recognizing these distinct applications of sozo ensures that readers appreciate the full scope of salvation described in Scripture, encompassing both temporal and eternal dimensions.

Words like zoe (“life”) also display varied meanings based on their specific context. While zoe commonly refers to physical life, it also signifies eternal or spiritual life in passages such as John 10:10, where Jesus states, “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” Here, zoe describes a life characterized by divine purpose and fulfillment, extending beyond mere biological existence. Recognizing these contextual variations helps in understanding the theological depth intended by the author.

The Impact of Synonyms, Antonyms, and Homonyms

Koine Greek, like any language, contains groups of related words with subtle or even significant distinctions. Synonyms and antonyms allow for nuanced expression, adding layers of meaning to passages that may be overlooked in translation. Consider the words kratos (might, strength) and dunamis (power), both of which are used to describe attributes of God. In Ephesians 6:10, Paul writes, “be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.” Here, kratos emphasizes a manifest form of strength associated with authority and dominion. Conversely, dunamis often refers to inherent power or ability, as seen in Acts 1:8, “you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you.” Recognizing these differences brings a richer understanding of how Scripture describes divine power.

Antonyms, on the other hand, provide valuable contrasts that highlight opposing ideas. In 1 John 1:6,7, the terms skotia (darkness) and phos (light) illustrate the stark difference between sin and righteousness: “If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another.” Here, skotia symbolizes sin and ignorance, while phos signifies righteousness and divine truth. Such contrasting terms are essential for conveying the moral and spiritual dimensions of the biblical message.

Homonyms—words with the same spelling or sound but different meanings—can also appear in Greek. For example, pistis can mean “faith” in the sense of trust in God, or it can refer to “faithfulness” as a quality. In Galatians 5:22, pistis is listed among the fruits of the Spirit, translated as “faithfulness.” However, in Romans 10:17, “So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ,” pistis clearly means belief or trust. Understanding these distinctions prevents potential misinterpretations and provides clarity regarding the diverse implications of pistis in different passages.

Why Context Is Crucial for Meaning

A word’s full meaning cannot be fully grasped apart from its context. Koine Greek relies on the surrounding words, sentence structures, and broader discourse to clarify and specify the meanings of individual terms. As such, context serves as a critical element in translation and interpretation. For instance, in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me,” the context shows Paul referring to contentment in all circumstances, not limitless ability. This understanding emerges only when we examine the surrounding verses, revealing that Paul’s reliance on divine strength pertains to endurance and contentment in varied life situations.

Context can also extend to cultural, historical, and situational factors. For example, in 1 Corinthians 11:10, the mention of a “symbol of authority” on a woman’s head reflects specific cultural practices related to head coverings. Understanding the historical background allows readers to appreciate Paul’s intent, distinguishing between cultural instructions and universal principles.

Finally, each term’s relationship within sentences, paragraphs, and broader narratives shapes its significance. Words, phrases, and clauses contribute meaning in a cumulative way, reinforcing the importance of contextual awareness in interpretation. As the learner progresses in Greek, the interconnectedness of lexemes, grammar, and context will reveal the Scriptures’ intricate design, encouraging a faithful understanding of the Word inspired by Jehovah.

How Can We Accurately Understand What the Biblical Authors Meant by Their Words?

In studying Koine Greek, the ultimate goal is not merely to acquire knowledge of grammar or vocabulary but to uncover the exact meaning intended by the original authors of the biblical text. Words convey thoughts, and by analyzing the way these words are used in specific contexts, we can gain clarity on the message God inspired through these human writers. This endeavor requires a rigorous commitment to understanding the historical and linguistic setting, for these factors shape the meanings of words and phrases. The Historical-Grammatical method, which seeks to interpret the Bible based on the author’s original intention within their historical and cultural environment, serves as the foundational approach to uncovering these truths.

Why Focus on Authorial Intent?

Authorial intent is central to accurate interpretation. Without understanding what an author originally intended, interpretations can drift, leading to personal or subjective readings rather than a faithful understanding of Scripture. When Paul wrote to the Corinthians, or when Peter addressed believers scattered across Asia Minor, they did so with specific purposes and messages, shaped by particular situations, concerns, and divine inspiration. Knowing these intentions helps clarify difficult passages and protects against misinterpretation.

For example, in Romans 12:1, Paul appeals to his readers, saying, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” The Greek word paristemi, translated here as “present,” carries the sense of offering oneself completely, in line with the Old Testament concept of a sacrificial offering. Paul uses this language to express the idea of total commitment to God, building upon imagery familiar to a Jewish audience accustomed to temple sacrifices. Recognizing this background reveals Paul’s intent to encourage a life fully devoted to God rather than a mere symbolic act of dedication.

Understanding Words in Their Historical Context

Words in Koine Greek, like all languages, carry meanings rooted in their historical context. When the New Testament authors chose particular words, they often did so with an awareness of the cultural or social implications of those terms. Thus, understanding the historical context of a word can illuminate its meaning in Scripture.

Consider the word ekklesia, commonly translated as “church.” In secular Greek, ekklesia referred to an assembly or gathering, often of citizens within a city. However, the New Testament writers used ekklesia to signify the community of believers, those “called out” by God for a distinct purpose. This term takes on theological weight, reflecting the concept of the church as a unique assembly under Christ’s authority. In Matthew 16:18, when Jesus says, “I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it,” He uses ekklesia to describe a gathering of His followers that stands distinct from secular assemblies, indicating a people set apart for God.

The Importance of Word Choice and Nuance

Authors carefully chose words that would resonate with their readers and convey specific meanings. In Koine Greek, slight variations in word choice can reveal important nuances. For instance, the New Testament uses several Greek words for “love,” each with unique implications. The term agape often denotes selfless, unconditional love, as seen in John 15:13, where Jesus states, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” This sacrificial love, embodied by Christ, differs from philia (brotherly love) or eros (romantic love). Recognizing these distinctions allows readers to grasp the depth of agape as the love that motivated Jesus’ sacrificial act and defines Christian love.

Another example is the term dikaiosyne, typically translated as “righteousness.” In Matthew 5:6, Jesus says, “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” Here, dikaiosyne implies not just personal virtue but a longing for divine justice and moral integrity. Jesus’ use of the word highlights the pursuit of a righteousness that aligns with God’s standards, reflecting a commitment to living according to His will. Each instance of dikaiosyne in the New Testament must be examined in its specific context to uncover whether it emphasizes individual ethical behavior, legal justification, or the pursuit of social and divine justice.

Contextual Meaning Versus Lexical Meaning

A word’s lexical meaning—its dictionary definition—provides a basic understanding, but context determines how that meaning applies in a particular instance. Words gain specific shades of meaning from their relationship to other words within a sentence or passage. The Greek word pneuma, often translated as “spirit” or “wind,” illustrates this point. In John 3:8, Jesus tells Nicodemus, “The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.” Here, pneuma plays on the double meaning of “wind” and “spirit,” illustrating the mysterious and uncontrollable nature of the Holy Spirit’s work. In this context, pneuma captures both the physical phenomenon of wind and the divine activity of the Spirit, offering a powerful image of regeneration.

Another example is found in Philippians 4:11, where Paul writes, “I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.” The Greek word autarkes, translated as “content,” carries the sense of self-sufficiency, not in a worldly sense but in reliance on God’s provision. Paul’s choice of autarkes conveys an attitude of inner peace and resilience that comes from trusting in Jehovah, independent of external circumstances. Here, the context of Paul’s imprisonment and reliance on God’s support during hardship colors the meaning of autarkes, enhancing the verse’s practical application for believers.

Syntax and Structure in Interpretation

Beyond individual words, the way sentences are structured reveals the author’s intent. Greek syntax allows flexibility in word order, often placing emphasis on specific ideas. This structure can clarify the author’s focus or highlight essential themes. For instance, in Galatians 2:20, Paul says, “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” The emphasis on “no longer I” underscores the transformational shift from Paul’s former life to one dominated by Christ. The sentence structure places Paul’s identity in subservience to Christ’s indwelling presence, an essential theme in his theology.

Similarly, in Romans 6:23, Paul writes, “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The contrast between “wages of sin” and “free gift of God” is emphasized through syntax. By juxtaposing these phrases, Paul highlights the transactional nature of sin versus the graciousness of God’s gift. Understanding the structural arrangement aids in grasping the full weight of Paul’s argument on sin and grace.

Idiomatic and Cultural Expressions

In addition to lexical and syntactical meaning, idiomatic expressions in Greek offer insights into cultural norms and values. Greek idioms often carry meanings not immediately clear to modern readers but familiar to the original audience. For instance, the phrase “gird up your loins” appears in Luke 12:35, where Jesus instructs His disciples to be ready for action. The idiom, based on the practice of tucking in robes to prepare for work or travel, conveys readiness and vigilance. Understanding this idiom as part of first-century customs enables readers to grasp the urgency of Jesus’ call to spiritual preparedness.

Another example is found in Matthew 6:22, where Jesus states, “The eye is the lamp of the body.” In this cultural context, the eye was often seen as a window to one’s inner state. A “healthy” or “generous” eye implied goodwill and integrity, while a “bad” eye suggested greed or envy. Recognizing this cultural connotation allows readers to understand Jesus’ teaching on the relationship between one’s internal attitudes and external actions, shedding light on the broader ethical message.

Discerning Meaning Through Word Studies

To arrive at what the authors meant by their words, studying Greek lexemes—individual words in their various forms—is indispensable. Yet, while each word has a range of meanings, its specific sense in any passage depends on context and usage within the larger discourse. For example, parakaleo, which can mean “to exhort,” “to comfort,” or “to encourage,” is used in various contexts across the New Testament. In 2 Corinthians 1:4, Paul describes God as “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction.” Here, parakaleo emphasizes the encouragement and support that comes from God’s presence in trials. However, in Romans 12:1, Paul writes, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God,” where parakaleo takes on the sense of an earnest exhortation. Observing how parakaleo shifts in meaning based on the context of each passage is key to understanding Paul’s intent.

By carefully analyzing these aspects of Koine Greek—lexical meanings, syntactical structures, idiomatic expressions, and the historical setting—students of the Bible can draw closer to understanding the intentions behind the words of Scripture. In this endeavor, recognizing the flexibility and depth of meaning in the original Greek equips believers to engage with God’s Word faithfully and accurately, aligning with the truth preserved in the Scriptures.

Vocabulary

• λέγω (legō) – “I say, speak, tell”
• οὐ (ou) – “not” (negative particle)
• τίς (tis) – “who, what, which”
• γάρ (gar) – “for, because”
• ἐάν (ean) – “if, whether”
• μή (mē) – “not” (negative particle, often used in subjunctive mood)
• ὅς (hos) – “who, which, that”
• ἔρχομαι (erchomai) – “I come, go”
• ποιέω (poieō) – “I do, make”
• θεός (theos) – “God”
• δύναμαι (dynamai) – “I am able, can”
• ἵνα (hina) – “that, in order that, so that”
• ὅτι (hoti) – “that, because”
• πάς (pas) – “all, every”
• οὐδείς (oudeis) – “no one, nobody, nothing”

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