Lexical Summary epeidéper: "Inasmuch as," "since indeed," "because" Original Word: ἐπειδήπερ Strong's Exhaustive Concordance inasmuch. From epeide and per; since indeed (of cause) -- forasmuch. see GREEK epeide see GREEK per NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom epeidé and per Definition inasmuch as NASB Translation much (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1895: ἐπειδήπερἐπειδήπερ (ἐπειδή περ Lachmann), conjunction (from ἐπεί, δή and περ), seeing that, forasmuch as; Itala and Vulg.quoniamquidem, since now (cf. Winer's Grammar, 448 (417)): Luke 1:1. (Aristotle, phys. 8, 5 (p. 256b, 25); Dionysius Halicarnassus 2, 72; Philo ad Gai. § 25, and Attic writings from Thucydides down.) Topical Lexicon Linguistic Force and Function The particle ἐπειδήπερ introduces a statement whose truth the writer assumes to be evident and uncontested. By prefacing the Gospel narrative with this term, Luke signals that the facts about Jesus Christ are not speculative; they stand on a foundation already accepted within the believing community. The choice of such a strong causal connector elevates the ensuing work from mere personal reflection to a reasoned, historically anchored account. Placement in Luke’s Preface (Luke 1:1) “Since many have undertaken to compile an account of the things that have been fulfilled among us” (Luke 1:1). The opening word sets the tone for Luke 1:1–4, an elegantly structured prologue reflecting classical historiography. By asserting, “Since indeed…,” Luke both acknowledges prior efforts and confidently presents his own orderly narrative. The particle therefore serves as a literary hinge: it honors earlier witnesses while promising an even more thorough treatment for Theophilus and subsequent readers. Affirmation of Eyewitness Testimony Luke immediately links the certainty implied by ἐπειδήπερ to “those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and servants of the word” (Luke 1:2). The particle thus frames the Gospel’s sources as credible, firsthand observers. In doing so, Luke reassures the Church that its faith rests on verifiable events, not myth or conjecture (compare 2 Peter 1:16). Literary Continuity with Acts The same author employs a similarly formal introduction in Acts 1:1–3. Although ἐπειδήπερ itself does not reappear, its initial use in the Gospel forges an implicit link: both volumes are offered as historically reliable records grounded in fulfilled prophecy and apostolic experience. The opening particle of Luke therefore reverberates through the two-part work, underscoring its unified purpose. Historical and Apologetic Significance In Greco-Roman literature, such a forceful causal particle often preceded rigorously researched histories (e.g., Thucydides, Polybius). By adopting that convention, Luke positions the Gospel within accepted standards of scholarly integrity, effectively inviting scrutiny. Modern apologetics still appeals to Luke’s prologue as evidence that the Christian message welcomes historical investigation and stands up under it (see Acts 26:26). Contribution to Early Christian Catechesis Luke writes so that Theophilus “may know the certainty of the things you have been taught” (Luke 1:4). The assured tone introduced by ἐπειδήπερ strengthens catechetical confidence: teaching about Christ is not tentative; it is sure. Early Church instruction drew heavily on Luke–Acts precisely because this foundation of certainty fortified new believers against doubt and heresy. Theological Reflection on Divine Inspiration While the word functions syntactically as a human literary device, its presence in inspired Scripture highlights the harmony between divine revelation and responsible human authorship. God’s Spirit can employ meticulous historical method without compromising spiritual authority. The particle thereby illustrates that inspiration includes, rather than bypasses, disciplined investigation. Practical Application for Ministry Pastors, teachers, and evangelists today may echo Luke’s opening “since indeed” when presenting the gospel: confidently grounding proclamation in events “fulfilled among us.” Apologetic sermons, Bible classes, and evangelistic conversations can all benefit from Luke’s model—beginning with the acknowledged reality of Christ’s works and moving toward personal faith and obedience. Summary Strong’s Greek 1895 appears only once, yet its strategic placement anchors an entire Gospel—and by extension the book of Acts—in historical certainty, eyewitness reliability, and theological confidence. In three syllables, Luke reassures every subsequent reader that the narrative of Jesus Christ rests on solid ground, inviting both faith and thoughtful inquiry. Forms and Transliterations ΕΠΕΙΔΗΠΕΡ επειδήπερ ἐπειδήπερ EPEIDePER EPEIDĒPERLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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