1499. ei kai

Lexicon

ei kai: even if, although

Original Word: εἰ καί
Part of Speech: Conjunction
Transliteration: ei kai
Pronunciation: ā kī
Phonetic Spelling: (i kahee)
Definition: even if, although
Meaning: if that, though

Strong's Exhaustive Concordance

if that, though.

From ei and kai; if also (or even) -- if (that), though.

see GREEK ei

see GREEK kai

HELPS Word-studies

1499 ei kaí (from 1487 /ei, "if" and 2532 /kaí, "even, and") – properly, "if also," "even if," "if indeed," "even though."

NAS Exhaustive Concordance

Word Origin
from ei and kai, q.v.

Topical Lexicon

Word Origin: A combination of εἰ (ei), a primary particle of conditionality, and καί (kai), a primary particle having a copulative and sometimes also a cumulative force.

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for the Greek phrase εἰ καί, similar concessive or conditional expressions can be found in Hebrew, such as אִם (im) for "if" and גַּם (gam) for "also" or "even." These particles are used in the Hebrew Bible to convey conditions and concessions, much like εἰ καί in the Greek New Testament.

Usage: The phrase εἰ καί is used in the New Testament to convey a sense of concession or to present a condition that might not align with the expected outcome. It often introduces a statement that acknowledges a potential obstacle or contradiction but affirms a truth or action regardless of that condition.

Context: The phrase εἰ καί appears in several New Testament passages, serving as a linguistic tool to express conditions that are acknowledged but not necessarily hindering the main point being made. It is a way to introduce a hypothetical or contrary-to-fact scenario while still affirming the truth or action that follows.

For example, in 2 Corinthians 4:16, the Apostle Paul uses εἰ καί to acknowledge the physical decay of the outer self while affirming the renewal of the inner self: "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day." Here, εἰ καί introduces the reality of physical decline but emphasizes the spiritual renewal that persists despite it.

Similarly, in Philippians 2:17, Paul uses εἰ καί to express his willingness to be poured out as a drink offering, even if it means his life: "But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you." The phrase highlights Paul's commitment and joy in serving, regardless of the personal cost.

The use of εἰ καί in these contexts underscores a theological principle of perseverance and faithfulness in the face of adversity or contradiction. It reflects a mindset that acknowledges challenges but remains steadfast in purpose and belief.

Forms and Transliterations

ει

Englishman's Concordance

εἰδωλοθύτων — 3 Occ.
εἰδωλόθυτον — 3 Occ.
ἱερόθυτόν — 1 Occ.
εἰδωλολατρία — 2 Occ.
εἰδωλολατρίαις — 1 Occ.
εἰδωλολατρίας — 1 Occ.
εἰδωλολάτραι — 3 Occ.
εἰδωλολάτραις — 2 Occ.
εἰδωλολάτρης — 2 Occ.
εἴδωλα — 3 Occ.
εἰδώλων — 4 Occ.
εἴδωλον — 2 Occ.
εἰδώλου — 1 Occ.
εἰκῇ — 6 Occ.
εἴκοσι — 11 Occ.
εἴξαμεν — 1 Occ.
ἔοικεν — 2 Occ.
εἰκὼν — 6 Occ.
εἰκόνα — 10 Occ.
εἰκόνι — 4 Occ.