### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ísōs**, represented by `{{G2481}}`, is an adverb meaning **likely** or **perhaps**. It appears only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible, highlighting its specific and rare usage. The term is translated as **it may be**, conveying a sense of possibility or hope in a particular outcome.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its sole biblical appearance, `{{G2481}}` is used within the parable of the wicked husbandmen. The **lord** `{{G2962}}` of the **vineyard** `{{G290}}`, after his servants are beaten, contemplates his next action. He decides to send his **beloved** `{{G27}}` **son** `{{G5207}}`, expressing a hopeful speculation: "**it may be** they will reverence him when they see him" [[Luke 20:13]]. This usage frames the word within a context of decision-making under uncertainty, where a final measure is taken with a hope, but not a guarantee, of success.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the setting in which `{{G2481}}` appears:
* `{{G2962}}` **kýrios** (master): This title, defined as "supreme in authority," identifies the speaker as the **lord** of the vineyard who is deliberating what to do [[Luke 20:13]].
* `{{G5207}}` **huiós** (son): This term for a "son" is the subject of the lord's hopeful plan. The entire narrative of the parable pivots on the decision to send his **beloved** **son** [[Luke 20:13]].
* `{{G1788}}` **entrépō** (to respect): This verb specifies the desired outcome. The possibility introduced by "it may be" is that the tenants will **reverence** the son, a hope also expressed in a parallel account [[Mark 12:6]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2481}}` is derived entirely from its singular use in the parable of the wicked husbandmen.
* **A Final Appeal:** The term expresses the final, hopeful measure taken by the **lord** `{{G2962}}` of the vineyard. After other servants failed, sending his **beloved** `{{G27}}` **son** `{{G5207}}` is a last resort, underscored by the uncertainty of "it may be" [[Luke 20:13]].
* **Foreshadowing Rejection:** The word's inherent sense of possibility, rather than certainty, subtly foreshadows the rejection of the son. The hope to be shown **reverence** `{{G1788}}` is ultimately not realized, highlighting the gravity of the tenants' future actions.
* **The Nature of God's Overture:** "Perhaps" illustrates a divine overture that respects the choice of the recipients. The outcome hinges on whether they will **see** `{{G1492}}` and **reverence** `{{G1788}}` the son, implying their response is not coerced.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2481}}` **ísōs** is a rare biblical adverb whose meaning is tied to its single appearance. Translated as **it may be**, it is used by the **lord** `{{G2962}}` of the vineyard to express a final, uncertain hope that his **son** `{{G5207}}` will be met with **reverence** `{{G1788}}` [[Luke 20:13]]. While a minor word in terms of frequency, it carries significant narrative weight, capturing a moment of divine patience and foreshadowing the tragic rejection at the heart of the parable.
TRV