### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ḗmēn**, represented by `{{G2252}}`, is a verb meaning **I was**. It appears 16 times in 16 verses and is used to express a past state of being from a first-person perspective. Though a simple grammatical form, it is used to anchor significant statements about identity, past conditions, and the nature of one's mission, particularly in the words of Jesus and the Apostle Paul.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G2252}}` is used to establish a past reality that carries present-day implications. Jesus uses it to identify with humanity's most vulnerable states, declaring, "I **was** a stranger `{{G3581}}`, and ye took me in" [[Matthew 25:35]] and "I **was** in prison `{{G5438}}`, and ye came unto me" [[Matthew 25:36]]. Jesus also uses it to refer to his specific time on earth with his disciples, stating, "While I **was** with them in the world, I kept them" [[John 17:12]]. Paul employs the term to contrast his past spiritual immaturity with his present state, writing, "When I **was** a child `{{G3516}}`, I spake as a child" [[1 Corinthians 13:11]]. He also uses it in his testimony, recounting that at Stephen's martyrdom, "I also **was** standing by" [[Acts 22:20]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words help clarify the states of being described by `{{G2252}}`:
* `{{G1096}}` **gínomai** (to cause to be... to become...): This word of transformation is often contrasted with the static past state of `{{G2252}}`. Paul illustrates this directly by saying, "When I **was** `{{G2252}}` a child... but when I **became** `{{G1096}}` a man, I put away childish things" [[1 Corinthians 13:11]].
* `{{G770}}` **asthenéō** (to be feeble): This describes a condition of weakness or sickness. It is one of the key states Jesus identifies with when He says, "I **was** sick `{{G770}}`, and ye visited me" [[Matthew 25:36]].
* `{{G1401}}` **doûlos** (a slave... servant): This term signifies an identity of submission or service. Paul uses it with `{{G2252}}` to declare his ultimate allegiance, stating that if he were still trying to please men, "I should not **be** `{{G2252}}` the **servant** of Christ" [[Galatians 1:10]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2252}}` is revealed in how it frames core Christian doctrines.
* **Christ's Identity with the Vulnerable:** The most profound use of "I was" is in Jesus' teaching on judgment. By stating "I **was** an hungred" [[Matthew 25:35]] and "I **was** sick" [[Matthew 25:43]], He directly equates His own identity with the plight of the needy, making service to them a service to Him.
* **Spiritual Transformation:** The phrase establishes a former state from which believers are transformed. Paul's statement, "When I **was** a child" `{{G3516}}` [[1 Corinthians 13:11]], provides a universal model for spiritual growth, contrasting a past self with a new identity in Christ.
* **The Historical Incarnation:** When Jesus says, "I **was** with you" [[John 16:4]], He emphasizes the specific, completed period of his physical, earthly ministry. This use of the past tense grounds the events of the gospel in a real, historical context.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2252}}` is far more than a simple past-tense verb. It is a powerful tool for expressing profound theological truths. It defines past states to reveal Christ's solidarity with the suffering, to illustrate the nature of spiritual growth from a former life, and to affirm the historical reality of Jesus's time on earth. Through this simple phrase, "I was," Scripture connects personal history to divine purpose and eternal significance.
TRV