### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word ἔστω (éstō, `{{G2077}}`) is the second or third person singular present imperative of the verb εἰμί (eimi, `{{G1510}}`), meaning "to be." As an imperative, ἔστω conveys a command, injunction, or permission. Its core meaning is "be thou," "let him/her/it be," or "let it be so." It does not denote action in the sense of doing something, but rather a state of being, an existence, or a condition that is commanded or permitted to be. This distinguishes it from verbs of action, emphasizing the establishment or maintenance of a particular reality or character. The present tense indicates a continuous or ongoing state.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
ἔστω appears in various New Testament contexts, consistently carrying the force of a divine or authoritative command concerning a state of being or a condition.
* In [[Matthew 5:37]], Jesus declares, "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No.'" Here, ἔστω (translated "let...be") functions as a direct command for integrity and truthfulness in speech. It emphasizes that a believer's word should embody an unwavering reality, reflecting inner character.
* Similarly, [[James 5:12]] reiterates this same imperative: "But let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,' 'No,' so that you may not fall under condemnation." This repetition underscores the vital importance of transparent and honest communication within the Christian life, linking it directly to avoiding divine judgment.
* Another significant occurrence is in [[Matthew 18:17]], within the context of church discipline. Jesus instructs, "And if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector." Here, ἔστω ("let him be") serves as a solemn declaration of excommunication, establishing a new status for the unrepentant individual within the community. It is a definitive command that defines the relationship.
* While less frequent than other forms of εἰμί, the imperative ἔστω powerfully conveys the establishment of a state or reality by divine or authoritative decree. It moves beyond mere description to prescription.
### Related Words & Concepts
The most fundamental related word is its root, εἰμί (eimi, `{{G1510}}`), the ubiquitous Greek verb "to be." ἔστω is merely one specific form—the imperative—of this foundational verb. Understanding εἰμί as denoting existence, identity, and predication is crucial for grasping the full weight of ἔστω.
Conceptually, ἔστω relates to other imperative forms of verbs that command a state or action, such as γενηθήτω (genēthētō, "let it become/happen," from γίνομαι `{{G1096}}`), which often carries the sense of coming into being or occurrence. While γενηθήτω emphasizes dynamic becoming, ἔστω focuses on the static or established state of being.
The concept of ἀλήθεια (alētheia, `{{G225}}`), "truth," is also closely related, as ἔστω often commands that something *be* true or be in accordance with truth, as seen in the command for one's "Yes" to *be* "Yes."
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἔστω lies in its imperative force, reflecting both divine authority and human responsibility.
* **Divine Decree and Reality:** When ἔστω is used in a context of divine utterance (e.g., implicitly in the teachings of Christ), it carries the weight of a divine decree. It signifies that God's word establishes reality; what God commands *to be*, *is* or *must be*. While the Septuagint uses γενηθήτω for creation ("Let there be light"), the underlying principle of God's authoritative word bringing about a state of being is resonant with ἔστω.
* **Ethical Imperative for Believers:** For the Christian, ἔστω functions as a powerful ethical imperative. It is not merely a suggestion but a command to embody a particular character or state of being. The call for one's "Yes" to "be" "Yes" is a call to radical integrity, where one's internal disposition aligns perfectly with external expression, reflecting the character of God who is truth. This word underscores the transformative power of the Gospel, calling believers not just to *do* certain things, but fundamentally *to be* a certain kind of person.
* **Establishment of Order:** In contexts like church discipline, ἔστω demonstrates the authority within the community to establish a new status for an individual, maintaining the purity and order of the body of Christ according to divine principles.
### Summary
ἔστω (éstō, `{{G2077}}`) is the imperative form of the Greek verb "to be" (εἰμί, `{{G1510}}`), signifying "be thou" or "let him/her/it be." Its primary function in the New Testament is to convey an authoritative command or permission concerning a state of being, an existence, or a condition that is to be established or maintained. Key occurrences in [[Matthew 5:37]], [[Matthew 18:17]], and [[James 5:12]] illustrate its use in demanding integrity of speech, establishing disciplinary status, and reinforcing ethical conduct. Theologically, ἔστω underscores the power of divine decree to establish reality, and it serves as a profound ethical imperative for believers, calling them to embody truth, integrity, and a transformed character that aligns with God's will. It is a word that calls for the very *being* of the individual to conform to divine standards.
TRV