optative (i.e. English subjunctive) present of εἰμί (including the other person); might (could, would, or should) be:--mean, + perish, should be, was, were.
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **eíēn**, represented by `{{G1498}}`, is the optative, or subjunctive, present form of the verb "to be." It appears **13 times** across **12 unique verses** in the Bible. Its definition conveys a potential or hypothetical state, translating to what **might, could, would, or should be**. Depending on the context, it can also be rendered as **mean, perish, was, or were**.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In Scripture, `{{G1498}}` is frequently employed to express questions of identity, meaning, or possibility. For instance, the disciples ask what a parable **might be** [[Luke 8:9]], and Mary "cast in her mind what manner of salutation this **should be**" [[Luke 1:29]]. The word is also used to frame deliberations, as when the disciples reasoned among themselves which of them **should be** the greatest [[Luke 9:46]]. In a stronger sense, it can convey a powerful wish, such as the Lord's desire for the Laodicean church: "I **would** thou **wert** cold or hot" [[Revelation 3:15]]. It is even used to pronounce a solemn judgment, as when Peter tells Simon that his money **should perish** with him [[Acts 8:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are often found in the same context as `{{G1498}}`, highlighting its use in moments of inquiry and uncertainty:
* `{{G1260}}` **dialogízomai** (to reason, think): This word describes the mental process leading to a question using `{{G1498}}`. The people "mused" in their hearts whether John **were** the Christ [[Luke 3:15]], and Mary "cast in her mind" what the angel's greeting **should be** [[Luke 1:29]].
* `{{G1280}}` **diaporéō** (to be in doubt, perplexed): This term signifies a state of confusion that `{{G1498}}` helps to articulate. Peter "doubted" what the vision he had seen **should mean** [[Acts 10:17]].
* `{{G4441}}` **pynthánomai** (to question, ask, demand): This verb of inquiry is used when characters seek to understand a situation. The chief captain **demanded** who Paul **was** [[Acts 21:33]], and Peter was beckoned to **ask** who it **should be** that would betray Jesus [[John 13:24]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1498}}` lies in its ability to express states of being that are potential or desired rather than actual.
* **Contemplating Identity and Meaning:** The word appears at critical moments of questioning and revelation. It is used when people wonder if John **were** the Christ `{{G5547}}` [[Luke 3:15]], when the disciples ask Jesus what a parable **meant** [[Luke 8:9]], and when they inquire among themselves which of them **it was** that would betray him [[Luke 22:23]].
* **Expressing Divine Will and Judgment:** The optative mood is used to communicate a strong desire or a conditional outcome. This is evident in the Lord’s wish for the spiritual state of the Laodiceans [[Revelation 3:15]] and in Peter’s stern rebuke of Simon, whose attempt to purchase God’s gift meant his money **should perish** [[Acts 8:20]].
* **Highlighting Human Deliberation:** The use of `{{G1498}}` often signals internal reasoning or group debate, such as when the disciples disputed who among them **should be** the greatest [[Luke 9:46]]. This underscores its function in exploring possibilities and unresolved matters.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1498}}` is a nuanced term that gives voice to potential, desire, and uncertainty. Though used sparingly, it is vital for conveying the internal thoughts of individuals and the deliberations within groups. It allows the biblical writers to express what **could be** or **should be**, moving beyond simple statements of fact to explore the depths of human questioning, divine will, and profound spiritual realities.
TRV