### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epeidḗper**, represented by `{{G1895}}`, is a causal conjunction meaning **since indeed** and is translated as **forasmuch**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Its singular use serves to introduce the foundational reason for the writing of the Gospel of Luke, establishing the cause for the narrative that follows.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole appearance of `{{G1895}}` is at the very beginning of Luke's Gospel, where it functions as a formal introduction establishing the reason for his work [[Luke 1:1]]. The word explains that *because* many others had already attempted to compile narratives of the events, Luke was prompted to create his own orderly account. It sets up a cause-and-effect structure, framing the entire Gospel as a response to a specific situation.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its immediate context clarify the reason Luke gives for writing:
* `{{G2021}}` **epicheiréō** (take in hand): This word, meaning to undertake or "put the hand upon," describes the attempts by others to document the life of Christ [[Luke 1:1]].
* `{{G392}}` **anatássomai** (set in order): Meaning to arrange, this highlights the specific task that others, and Luke himself, were engaged in—compiling an orderly narrative of events [[Luke 1:1]].
* `{{G4135}}` **plērophoréō** (most surely believed): This term signifies that the events being recorded were not matters of doubt but were "completely assured" or "fully known" among the believers [[Luke 1:1]].
* `{{G4183}}` **polýs** (many): This word indicates that Luke's effort was not the first; **many** had preceded him in this task, prompting his own contribution [[Luke 1:1]].
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of `{{G1895}}` lies in how it frames the purpose and authority of Luke's Gospel.
* **A Justified Narrative:** By using **Forasmuch**, Luke acknowledges the existence of prior accounts. This word serves as a logical preface, explaining why his own detailed and orderly version is necessary.
* **Foundation in Community Belief:** The word introduces a chain of events: *because* many have compiled accounts of things "most surely believed," Luke is now presenting his. This grounds his writing in the received traditions of the early Christian community [[Luke 1:1]].
* **Establishing Purpose:** As a word of causation, `{{G1895}}` directly sets up the reason for the entire book that follows, underscoring that the Gospel of Luke is a deliberate and orderly presentation of established truth.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G1895}}` is a rare but structurally vital word. As a conjunction introducing cause, its single use in the Bible provides the entire rationale for the Gospel of Luke. It signals that Luke's work is not created in a vacuum but is a response to other accounts, intended to provide a clear and orderly record of events that were "most surely believed" by the early church [[Luke 1:1]].
TRV