from ἐπειδή and περ; since indeed (of cause):--forasmuch.
Transliteration:epeidḗper
Pronunciation:ep-i-day'-per
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek adverb ἐπειδήπερ (epeidḗper, `{{G1895}}`) is a compound word formed from ἐπειδή (epeidē, `{{G1894}}`) and the enclitic particle περ (per). The base word ἐπειδή signifies "since," "because," or "when," indicating a causal or temporal relationship. The addition of περ serves to intensify or emphasize the preceding word or idea, conveying a sense of "indeed," "very," or "even." Therefore, ἐπειδήπερ carries the strengthened meaning of "since indeed," "inasmuch as," or "seeing that," introducing a premise that is presented as a firm, undeniable, or widely acknowledged fact that serves as the basis for what follows. Its semantic range emphasizes a definitive causal link, often pointing to an established reality that necessitates a particular action or conclusion.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
Remarkably, ἐπειδήπερ occurs only once in the entire New Testament, appearing in the foundational verse of Luke's Gospel: [[Luke 1:1]].
In [[Luke 1:1]], the evangelist Luke begins his meticulously crafted account with the words, "Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us..." The use of ἐπειδήπερ here is highly significant. Luke is not merely stating that "since" others have attempted to write, he will too. Rather, the emphatic "forasmuch as indeed" or "seeing that it is a fact that" underscores the established reality of prior attempts to document the events of Christ's life. This opening phrase sets the stage for Luke's own work, presenting it not as an isolated endeavor but as a necessary and authoritative contribution, building upon and perfecting earlier, less complete, or less orderly narratives. It implies that the existence of these prior accounts, and the widespread belief in the events they describe, serves as the very impetus and justification for Luke's own inspired and orderly compilation. This singular occurrence thus highlights the historical and factual basis upon which the Gospel narrative is constructed.
### Related Words & Concepts
ἐπειδήπερ stands in close relation to other Greek conjunctions that express cause or reason, yet it possesses a unique emphatic quality.
* **ἐπειδή (epeidē, `{{G1894}}`):** As its root, ἐπειδή means "since" or "because." ἐπειδήπερ intensifies this causal link, adding a nuance of "indeed" or "certainly."
* **διότι (dioti, `{{G1360}}`):** Meaning "because" or "for that reason," διότι also introduces a cause, but without the strong emphatic particle περ found in ἐπειδήπερ.
* **γάρ (gar, `{{G1063}}`):** A common conjunction meaning "for" or "because," γάρ provides an explanation or reason, often for a preceding statement. ἐπειδήπερ tends to introduce a more foundational or widely accepted premise.
* **ὅτι (hoti, `{{G3754}}`):** Can mean "that" or "because." When used causally, it is less emphatic than ἐπειδήπερ, which points to a cause that is presented as an undisputed fact.
The unique combination of ἐπειδή and περ in ἐπειδήπερ suggests a stronger, more definitive causal connection, often introducing a premise that is either self-evident, widely accepted, or foundational to the argument being made.
### Theological Significance
Despite its singular occurrence, the theological significance of ἐπειδήπερ in [[Luke 1:1]] is profound.
1. **Historical Grounding of the Gospel:** The use of this emphatic causal particle immediately roots the Christian faith in historical reality. Luke does not present a myth or an abstract philosophy, but an account of "things which are most surely believed among us." The emphasis on "forasmuch as indeed" underscores that the events of Christ's life, death, and resurrection are not merely stories but foundational facts that necessitate a careful, orderly, and authoritative declaration.
2. **Divine Purpose in Revelation:** Luke's meticulous undertaking, motivated by the existing narratives (ἐπειδήπερ), speaks to the divine process of revelation. God's truth is not delivered in a vacuum but often builds upon human efforts and addresses human needs for clarity and certainty. The very existence of prior accounts serves as a catalyst for God's inspired word through Luke.
3. **Reliability and Certainty of the Gospel Message:** The phrase implies that the events Luke is about to narrate are not open to question but are firmly established. Luke's purpose is to provide an "orderly account" so that Theophilus (and by extension, all readers) "may know the certainty of those things wherein thou hast been instructed" ([[Luke 1:4]]). ἐπειδήπερ thus serves as an initial declaration of the Gospel's reliability, laying a solid foundation for faith based on verifiable events and widely accepted truths. It signals Luke's intention to present a trustworthy and authoritative narrative.
### Summary
ἐπειδήπερ (epeidḗper, `{{G1895}}`) is a potent Greek adverb meaning "since indeed" or "inasmuch as," intensifying a causal connection. Its sole appearance in the New Testament at [[Luke 1:1]] is highly significant. There, it establishes the historical and factual premise for Luke's Gospel, indicating that the widespread belief and prior attempts to document the life of Christ served as the compelling reason for Luke's own divinely inspired and orderly account. This word underscores the historical groundedness, reliability, and certainty of the Gospel message, emphasizing that the Christian faith is built upon events "most surely believed," providing a firm foundation for understanding and faith.
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