of uncertain affinity; on account of:--because, for (cause, sake), (where-)fore, by reason of, that.
Transliteration:héneka
Pronunciation:hi'-nek-en
Detailed Word Study
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek preposition ἕνεκα (héneka), transliterated as *héneka*, conveys the fundamental meaning of "on account of," "because of," or "for the sake of." It is consistently used to denote the cause, reason, or purpose behind an action, event, or state. While its etymological affinity is noted as uncertain in some lexical sources, its semantic function within the New Testament is remarkably clear and consistent. It serves as a marker of causality, indicating that which provides the ground or motivation for something else. When used with a genitive noun, it specifies the person, thing, or concept that serves as the reason or purpose. Its range encompasses both the *causa efficiens* (efficient cause) and *causa finalis* (final cause or purpose), making it a versatile term for expressing the rationale behind an occurrence.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἕνεκα (héneka) appears frequently in the New Testament, illuminating the reasons and purposes behind both divine and human actions.
* **Expressing Cause or Reason:** In many instances, *héneka* specifies the *reason why* something occurs. For example, in [[Matthew 10:18]], Jesus warns His disciples that they will be brought before governors and kings "for my sake" (ἕνεκα ἐμοῦ), indicating that their persecution will be *because of* their association with Him. Similarly, [[Romans 8:36]] quotes Psalm 44:22, stating, "For your sake we are being killed all the day long," attributing the suffering of believers directly to their relationship with God. The phrase "for this reason" (ἕνεκα τούτου) often introduces a consequence or explanation, as seen in [[Matthew 19:5]], where Jesus cites the Genesis account of marriage: "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife."
* **Expressing Purpose or Goal:** *Héneka* also frequently denotes the *purpose for which* an action is undertaken. In [[Mark 10:29]], Jesus speaks of those who have left house, brothers, or sisters "for my sake and for the gospel's sake" (ἕνεκα ἐμοῦ καὶ ἕνεκα τοῦ εὐαγγελίου), highlighting the ultimate purpose of their sacrifice. This signifies a reorientation of life's priorities towards Christ and the propagation of His message. In [[John 12:30]], when a voice from heaven speaks, Jesus clarifies, "This voice has come not for my sake but for your sake" (οὐκ ἐμοῦ ἕνεκα ἀλλὰ δι’ ὑμᾶς), emphasizing that the divine manifestation was for the benefit and conviction of the listeners.
* **Contexts of Discipleship and Suffering:** A significant cluster of occurrences relates to the cost and nature of discipleship. Passages like [[Matthew 19:29]], [[Mark 8:35]], and [[Luke 18:29]] consistently use *héneka* to describe the radical commitment required of followers of Christ – leaving family, possessions, or even life itself "for my sake" or "for the sake of the kingdom of God." This underscores a profound shift in allegiance and motivation, where the ultimate reason for one's actions becomes Christ and His redemptive purposes.
### Related Words & Concepts
The semantic field of causality and purpose in the New Testament includes several other prepositions and concepts that overlap or complement ἕνεκα (héneka).
* **`{{G1223}}` (διά - dia):** This preposition can also express cause ("through," "on account of") when used with the accusative case, or means/instrument ("through") with the genitive. There is often a close semantic proximity between *héneka* and *dia* when both convey "because of" or "on account of." For instance, in [[John 12:30]], Jesus uses *héneka* and then *dia* to convey a similar sense of purpose/cause.
* **`{{G1519}}` (εἰς - eis):** While primarily indicating motion toward or into, *eis* can also express purpose ("unto," "for the purpose of"), particularly when connected to verbs of action.
* **`{{G4314}}` (πρός - pros):** This preposition, meaning "to" or "toward," can also convey purpose or aim, especially in contexts of intention or direction.
* **Causality and Teleology:** *Héneka* is a key lexical item for understanding the New Testament's emphasis on causality (the relationship between cause and effect) and teleology (the study of purpose or design). It points to the underlying reasons and ultimate goals of actions, whether human or divine.
* **Motivation:** The word is central to understanding the motivations behind human behavior, particularly the motivations for Christian living, service, and sacrifice.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἕνεκα (héneka) is profound, as it consistently directs attention to the divine purpose and the Christ-centered motivations that ought to govern believers' lives.
* **Divine Sovereignty and Purpose:** *Héneka* frequently highlights God's sovereign plan and the divine reasons for events. The suffering of Christ, for instance, was "for our sake" ([[Romans 4:25]], [[1 Corinthians 15:3]]), emphasizing the redemptive purpose of His sacrifice. The very existence of believers and their trials can be understood as being "for His sake" or "for the sake of the gospel," fitting into God's overarching plan for salvation and the establishment of His kingdom.
* **The Cost and Nature of Discipleship:** Perhaps most poignantly, *héneka* defines the radical nature of Christian discipleship. To suffer, to lose, or to abandon things "for Christ's sake" is not merely an unfortunate consequence but a divinely ordained pathway that reorients one's entire existence around the person and mission of Jesus. This transforms sacrifice from a regrettable loss into a purposeful act of devotion. It underscores that true discipleship is not merely intellectual assent but a life lived with a singular, Christ-centered motivation.
* **The Basis of Salvation:** While not a direct term for salvation, *héneka* implicitly undergirds the concept of salvation being "on account of" Christ's finished work. Our justification and redemption are not *because of* our merit but *on account of* the propitiatory sacrifice of Christ. This foundational truth of grace is subtly reinforced by the causal function of *héneka* in other contexts.
* **Missionary Imperative:** The call to act "for the sake of the gospel" (e.g., [[1 Corinthians 9:23]]) provides a powerful theological impetus for evangelism and missionary endeavor, framing it as the ultimate purpose for which believers dedicate their lives and resources.
### Summary
The Greek preposition ἕνεκα (héneka) is a crucial term in the New Testament, consistently conveying the meaning "on account of," "because of," or "for the sake of." It functions to express the cause, reason, or purpose behind actions and events. Contextual analysis reveals its frequent use in explaining both divine motivations and the profound reasons for Christian discipleship, particularly in passages dealing with sacrifice and suffering for the sake of Christ and the gospel. Theologically, *héneka* underscores God's sovereign purpose, illuminates the Christ-centered motivation required of believers, and defines the radical reorientation of life inherent in true discipleship. It is a word that points to the ultimate rationale for existence and action within the divine economy.
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