### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epán**, represented by `{{G1875}}`, is a particle indicating "indefinite contemporaneousness," translated as **whenever** or **as soon as**. It is derived from ἐπί and ἄν and serves to introduce a conditional clause. It appears only **3 times** in **3 unique verses**, making each of its uses significant in context.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical usage, `{{G1875}}` consistently sets the stage for a consequential action. In Matthew, Herod uses it to command the Magi, linking the moment they find the young child to their required report: "**when** ye have found him, bring me word again" [[Matthew 2:8]]. In a parable from Luke, the word marks the turning point in a conflict, where a strong man's defenses are rendered useless: "**when** a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour" [[Luke 11:22]]. It is also used to explain a spiritual principle, where the state of the body is dependent on the state of the eye: "**when** thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light" [[Luke 11:34]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words are found in the immediate context of `{{G1875}}`, clarifying the conditions and outcomes it introduces:
* `{{G2147}}` **heurískō** (to find (literally or figuratively)): This action is the trigger event in Herod's command. The report is to happen only **when** the child is found [[Matthew 2:8]].
* `{{G3528}}` **nikáō** (to subdue (literally or figuratively)): This describes the result of the confrontation in the parable. The stronger man's arrival, marked by **when**, leads directly to him overcoming his opponent [[Luke 11:22]].
* `{{G3788}}` **ophthalmós** (the eye (literally or figuratively)): The quality of the eye is the specific condition introduced by **when** that determines the spiritual state of the whole body [[Luke 11:34]].
* `{{G3982}}` **peíthō** (to convince...to rely (by inward certainty)): This word describes the strong man's confidence in his armor, a trust that is broken **when** he is overcome by a stronger force [[Luke 11:22]].
### Theological Significance
While a simple particle, the theological weight of `{{G1875}}` lies in the critical conditions it establishes.
* **Conditional Consequences:** The word creates a clear cause-and-effect structure for pivotal events. The finding of the child is meant to trigger Herod's feigned worship [[Matthew 2:8]], and the overcoming of the strong man leads to the division of his spoils [[Luke 11:22]].
* **Spiritual Illumination:** Its use in [[Luke 11:34]] establishes a spiritual law. The body being **full of light** `{{G5460}}` is not arbitrary but is the direct result **when** the **eye** `{{G3788}}` is single. This connects inner purity and focus to one's spiritual condition.
* **Decisive Confrontation:** The word marks the precise moment of defeat for the self-reliant. The strong man is secure in his **full armor** `{{G3833}}` until the moment **when** a stronger power arrives and overcomes him, illustrating the futility of trusting in one's own strength.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1875}}` is a rare but functionally significant word. As a particle meaning "whenever" or "as soon as," it is not a major theological term on its own, but it is indispensable for structuring the verses where it appears. By establishing the conditions for finding, overcoming, or spiritual illumination, **epán** serves as a grammatical linchpin that connects a specific circumstance to its inevitable and crucial outcome.
TRV