### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word G1751 (ἔνειμι), transliterated as *éneimi*, is a compound verb formed from the preposition ἐν (in, within) and the verb εἰμί (to be). Its fundamental meaning is "to be in," "to be within," or "to exist internally." The Strong's definition specifically notes its rare occurrence in the New Testament as a "neuter participle plural," indicating "things that are within" or "that which is inside/available." This grammatical form emphasizes the inherent presence or possession of something. It is closely related to G1749 (ἔνι), which is the more common third-person singular present indicative form, often used impersonally to mean "there is in" or "it is possible."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The word G1751 (ἔνειμι) appears only once in the entire New Testament, specifically in the Gospel of Luke. Its singular occurrence is found in [[Luke 11:41]].
In this passage, Jesus is in the midst of a sharp rebuke of the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, particularly their meticulous attention to external ritual purity while neglecting internal righteousness and justice.
[[Luke 11:41]]: "But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you." (KJV)
The phrase translated "such things as ye have" is τὰ ἐνόντα (ta enonta), which is the neuter plural participle of ἔνειμι. Here, τὰ ἐνόντα refers to "the things that are within" one's possession or "that which is available" to them. Jesus' command contrasts sharply with the Pharisees' concern for outwardly clean cups and dishes. He redirects their focus from external washings to internal disposition and action. By urging them to give alms "of what is within" their means or possession, Jesus implies that true cleanliness, in God's sight, originates from a heart of generosity and compassion, expressed through tangible acts of charity. The subsequent promise, "and, behold, all things are clean unto you," powerfully connects genuine internal benevolence with spiritual purity, suggesting that a heart transformed by love can sanctify even the common aspects of life.
### Related Words & Concepts
* G1749 (ἔνι): As noted, this is the more common third-person singular form of ἔνειμι, frequently translated as "there is in" or "it is possible." It shares the core semantic range of internal existence or possibility.
* G1722 (ἐν): The foundational preposition "in," "within," or "among," which forms the prefix of ἔνειμι. Its pervasive use throughout the New Testament highlights the concept of indwelling, presence, and relationship.
* G1510 (εἰμί): The fundamental Greek verb "to be," "to exist," or "to happen." It serves as the base verb for ἔνειμι, contributing the aspect of existence.
* Theological concepts closely related to the usage of G1751 in [[Luke 11:41]] include: inner purity, the priority of the heart over external ritual, authentic righteousness, generosity, almsgiving, and the transformative power of love and compassion.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the word G1751 (ἔνειμι) in [[Luke 11:41]] carries profound theological weight. It serves as a concise yet powerful articulation of Jesus' consistent teaching that true righteousness is not a matter of outward conformity or ritualistic performance, but an internal state that manifests in ethical action. The command to "give alms of what is within you/what you have" (τὰ ἐνόντα) challenges the superficiality of religious observance, redirecting attention to the heart's capacity for generosity.
This verse emphasizes that God's standard of purity transcends mere ceremonial cleanness. It suggests that a heart committed to benevolent action, utilizing its internal resources for the good of others, achieves a deeper, more comprehensive form of purity that "cleanses" all things. This principle aligns with other New Testament teachings that prioritize love for God and neighbor above legalistic adherence (e.g., [[Matthew 22:37-40]], [[Mark 12:30-31]]). The word, therefore, underscores the ethical demands of the Kingdom of God, where internal transformation leads to outward acts of self-giving, which in turn brings about holistic spiritual cleanliness.
### Summary
The Greek word G1751 (ἔνειμι), meaning "to be within" or "to exist within," is a unique and significant term found only once in the New Testament, specifically in [[Luke 11:41]]. Appearing as the neuter plural participle τὰ ἐνόντα, it refers to "such things as are within" one's possession or capacity. In this pivotal passage, Jesus employs the word to challenge the Pharisees' emphasis on external ritual purity, asserting that true cleanliness and righteousness stem from the heart's internal disposition. By commanding them to "give alms of what is within you/what you have," Jesus highlights that genuine purity is achieved through acts of generosity and compassion, which flow from an inward transformation. This singular usage of G1751 powerfully encapsulates a core theological principle: God values the condition of the heart and its expression in benevolent action far above any outward religious observance, leading to a holistic spiritual purity.
TRV