### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek phrase **ei kaí**, represented by `{{G1499}}`, is a conditional particle formed from εἰ (if) and καί (also/even). It translates as **if also**, **if even**, or **though**, appearing 25 times across 21 unique verses. This expression is used to introduce a hypothetical condition or a concessive clause that contrasts one reality with another, often to emphasize a greater spiritual truth.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In biblical writing, `{{G1499}}` is used to frame theological arguments and contrasts. It often sets up a concession, acknowledging one reality to highlight a more significant, often opposing, truth. For instance, it is used to contrast physical decay with spiritual renewal in the statement, "**though** our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day" [[2 Corinthians 4:16]]. It also introduces hypothetical conditions to make a point, as when Paul challenges pride by asking, "now **if** thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?" [[1 Corinthians 4:7]]. The phrase can also establish a condition for blessing, such as, "But and **if** ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye" [[1 Peter 3:14]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related particles help to build arguments of concession, reason, and contrast in a similar way:
* `{{G235}}` **allá** (but, yet): This is a strong adversative particle, often used to present a direct contrast. It appears alongside `{{G1499}}` to emphasize the shift in thought, as in [[2 Corinthians 4:16]]. It is used to contrast the spirit of fear with the spirit of power, love, and a sound mind [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
* `{{G1063}}` **gár** (for, because): This particle assigns a reason or provides an explanation for a preceding statement. While `{{G1499}}` presents a condition, `{{G1063}}` often follows to explain the theological basis or result, as in the statement that God has not given a spirit of fear [[2 Timothy 1:7]].
* `{{G1161}}` **dé** (but, and): A continuative or mild adversative particle used to connect clauses. It often works with `{{G1499}}` to introduce a new, sometimes contrasting, element in an argument, such as "**But if** our gospel be hid..." [[2 Corinthians 4:3]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1499}}` lies in its ability to structure and clarify divine truths by means of comparison and condition.
* **Spiritual Reality Over Physical Circumstance:** The phrase is used to teach that spiritual identity and strength are not dependent on physical conditions. Paul states that "**though** I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit" [[Colossians 2:5]], and "**though** our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed" [[2 Corinthians 4:16]].
* **Humility in the Face of Divine Gifts:** It is used in hypothetical arguments to expose human pride. By asking "**if** thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory," Paul reminds believers that their gifts are not their own achievement [[1 Corinthians 4:7]]. He also uses it as a statement of personal humility: "**though** I be nothing" [[2 Corinthians 12:11]].
* **Conditions for Blessing and Joy:** The phrase often sets the stage for a spiritual promise that is realized even in difficult circumstances. Suffering for righteousness is presented as a condition for being "happy" [[1 Peter 3:14]], and Paul's potential martyrdom is framed as a source of joy: "**if** I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy" [[Philippians 2:17]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1499}}` is a nuanced syntactical tool that does more than just state a condition. It allows scriptural authors to build powerful arguments by conceding a point only to introduce a greater one. Whether contrasting the temporal with the eternal, setting conditions for divine blessings, or arguing for humility, **ei kaí** demonstrates how the logic embedded in Greek grammar is used to reveal profound theological truths.
TRV