### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **εἰσί (eisí)**, represented by `{{G1526}}`, is the 3rd person plural present indicative of εἰμί, meaning **they are**. It appears 166 times across 146 unique verses. This fundamental verb of being is essential for statements of identity, existence, and condition concerning multiple subjects.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G1526}}` is used to establish definitive truths and identities. It defines believers as "the sons of God" when led by the Spirit [[Romans 8:14]] and describes those emerging from persecution as "they which came out of great tribulation" [[Revelation 7:14]]. The term also explains symbolic imagery, such as in Revelation, where the seven stars **are** the angels of the seven churches [[Revelation 1:20]], and the golden vials full of odours **are** the prayers of saints [[Revelation 5:8]]. Furthermore, it states conditions, such as "the days **are** evil" [[Ephesians 5:16]] or declares that God's commandments **are** not grievous [[1 John 5:3]].
### Related Words & Concepts
As a form of the primary verb "to be," `{{G1526}}` is part of a family of related words that express existence:
* `{{G1510}}` **eimí** (I exist): The root verb in the first-person singular, "I am." It is used emphatically, as when Christ states where two or three are gathered, "there **am I** in the midst of them" [[Matthew 18:20]].
* `{{G2076}}` **estí** (he/she/it is): The third-person singular form, used for singular subjects. For example, in the parable of the tares, the harvest **is** the end of the world [[Matthew 13:39]].
* `{{G1488}}` **eî** (thou art): The second-person singular form, used in direct address. It appears in the declaration of worship, "Thou **art** worthy, O Lord" [[Revelation 4:11]].
* `{{G2258}}` **ēn** (was/were): The imperfect form, indicating a past state of being. It is used to describe the apostles after they were seen with Jesus, noting "they had **been** with Jesus" [[Acts 4:13]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1526}}` lies in its function to declare what is true from a divine perspective.
* **Spiritual Identity:** The word is critical for defining the nature of believers. Those led by the Spirit **are** the sons of God [[Romans 8:14]]. In contrast, those who follow worldly lusts **are** "murmurers" and "complainers" [[Jude 1:16]].
* **Divine Reality:** It reveals spiritual truths that are not apparent to the physical eye. Angels **are** ministering spirits [[Hebrews 1:14]], and the governing authorities **are** ordained of God [[Romans 13:1]].
* **Symbolic Interpretation:** `{{G1526}}` serves as a key to understanding biblical symbolism. The seven eyes of the Lamb **are** the seven Spirits of God [[Revelation 5:6]], the tares **are** the children of the wicked one [[Matthew 13:38]], and the reapers **are** the angels [[Matthew 13:39]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1526}}` is a foundational verb that does more than state existence. It is a word of declaration, defining spiritual identities, revealing the nature of symbolic elements, and establishing divinely ordained realities. It functions as the plural "they are" within the broader family of the verb "to be," `{{G1510}}`, providing a crucial building block for communicating truth throughout the New Testament.
TRV