### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **epeíper**, represented by `{{G1897}}`, is a conjunction that means **since indeed (of cause)** or **seeing**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the Bible. Though rare, its function is to introduce a foundational reason or logical premise for a subsequent statement, highlighting cause and effect in a theological argument.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single use of `{{G1897}}` is found in [[Romans 3:30]], where it serves as a critical connector in the Apostle Paul's argument for justification by faith. The verse states, "**Seeing** it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith" [[Romans 3:30]]. Here, **epeíper** establishes the truth of God's oneness as the reason why He justifies both Jew (the **circumcision** `{{G4061}}`) and Gentile (the **uncircumcision** `{{G203}}`) through the same singular path of **faith** `{{G4102}}`.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in its context clarify the doctrine being explained:
* `{{G1344}}` **dikaióō** (to render (i.e. show or regard as) just or innocent): This is the divine action at the heart of the passage. The word clarifies that God is the one who declares a person righteous.
* `{{G4061}}` **peritomḗ** (circumcision (the rite, the condition or the people, literally or figuratively)): This term represents the Jewish people, who were ethnically and ritually set apart under the Old Covenant.
* `{{G203}}` **akrobystía** (the prepuce; by implication, an uncircumcised (i.e. gentile, figuratively, unregenerate) state or person): This term represents the Gentile nations, standing in contrast to the circumcision and encompassing all who are outside the Mosaic covenant.
* `{{G4102}}` **pístis** (reliance upon Christ for salvation...faith): This is the universal means by which both groups are justified, superseding any ritual or ethnic distinction.
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G1897}}` in this passage is significant, as it provides the logical foundation for key Christian doctrines.
* **The Oneness of God:** The word introduces the essential truth that there is **one** `{{G1520}}` **God** `{{G2316}}`. This monotheistic principle is the bedrock of the argument that God acts consistently and impartially toward all people [[Romans 3:30]].
* **Universal Justification:** **Seeing** that God is one, He employs a single, unified plan of salvation. He does not have separate methods for different groups but will **justify** `{{G1344}}` both the **circumcision** `{{G4061}}` and the **uncircumcision** `{{G203}}` alike.
* **Faith as the Channel:** The argument initiated by `{{G1897}}` concludes that **faith** `{{G4102}}` is the sole channel for justification for all humanity, received either **by** `{{G1537}}` faith or **through** `{{G1223}}` faith [[Romans 3:30]].
### Summary
In summary, **epeíper** `{{G1897}}` is more than a simple conjunction; it is a linchpin in a pivotal theological argument. Though appearing just once, it introduces the cause—the oneness of God—that validates the effect: a single path of justification by faith for both Jew and Gentile. It demonstrates how a foundational belief about God's nature directly shapes the doctrine of salvation.
TRV