### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word καίγε (kaíge, `{{G2534}}`) is a compound conjunction formed from καί (kai, `{{G2532}}`), meaning "and," "also," or "even," and the enclitic particle γέ (ge, `{{G1065}}`), which adds emphasis, limitation, or confirmation, often translated as "indeed," "at least," "at any rate," or "even." When combined as καίγε, the conjunction intensifies the preceding statement or word, conveying a sense of "and indeed," "and even," or "and at least." It serves to highlight a particular aspect, to underscore an inclusion, or to emphasize a minimum condition, often with a nuance of surprise or unexpected breadth. The primary function is to add a strong affirmative or inclusive emphasis to the conjunction "and."
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term καίγε (kaíge, `{{G2534}}`) is notably rare in the New Testament, appearing definitively in **Acts 2:18**. This sole occurrence is found within Peter's sermon on the Day of Pentecost, where he quotes the prophet Joel concerning the outpouring of the Holy Spirit:
"καὶ γε ἐπὶ τοὺς δούλους μου καὶ ἐπὶ τὰς δούλας μου ἐν ταῖς ἡμέραις ἐκείναις ἐκχεῶ ἀπὸ τοῦ πνεύματός μου, καὶ προφητεύσουσιν."
"And indeed/even upon My male servants and upon My female servants in those days I will pour out My Spirit, and they will prophesy." [[Acts 2:18]]
In this context, καίγε serves to emphasize the extraordinary breadth and inclusivity of God's promise. The prophecy from Joel 2:28-29 (LXX Joel 3:1-2) declares that God's Spirit will be poured out "on all flesh," and Peter specifically highlights that this outpouring extends even to "male servants and female servants." The use of καίγε here underscores that this divine gift is not restricted by social status, gender, or any other human-imposed distinction. It emphasizes the radical democratization of the Spirit's presence and power, a truly groundbreaking aspect of the new covenant inaugurated by Christ. It is a powerful affirmation that God's grace transcends societal hierarchies, reaching the humble and the marginalized.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary components of καίγε (kaíge, `{{G2534}}`) are central to its meaning:
* καί (kai, `{{G2532}}`): This is the most common Greek conjunction, meaning "and," "also," "even," "but," "yet." Its basic function is additive or connective.
* γέ (ge, `{{G1065}}`): An enclitic particle that adds emphasis, often with a nuance of limitation, confirmation, or contrast. It can mean "at least," "indeed," "certainly," "even."
Other related words and concepts include:
* καίτοι (kaitoi, `{{G2543}}`): "and yet," "although." Often combined with γέ as καίτοιγε (kaitoi ge), meaning "and yet indeed," which carries a stronger adversative or concessive force.
* δέ (de, `{{G1161}}`): A common conjunction meaning "but," "and," "now," often indicating a slight transition or contrast.
* ἀλλά (alla, `{{G235}}`): A stronger adversative conjunction, meaning "but," "on the contrary."
* The concept of divine impartiality: The extension of God's blessings and gifts irrespective of human status or background.
* The scope of God's promises: Highlighting the expansive and inclusive nature of God's covenantal faithfulness.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of καίγε (kaíge, `{{G2534}}`) is profound, particularly given its singular appearance in **Acts 2:18**. In this context, it serves as a linguistic beacon for the radical inclusivity of the New Covenant. Peter's use of this emphatic conjunction underscores that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, prophesied by Joel and fulfilled at Pentecost, is not limited to a select few, such as prophets, priests, or kings, but extends "even upon My male servants and upon My female servants." This declaration shatters conventional social and religious barriers, affirming that the Spirit's empowerment and prophetic gifting are available to all believers, regardless of their social standing or gender.
This emphasis directly challenges hierarchical structures and reinforces the biblical principle of God's impartiality (cf. [[Acts 10:34]], [[Romans 2:11]], [[Galatians 3:28]]). It signifies that in Christ, the old distinctions that separated people (Jew/Gentile, slave/free, male/female) are transcended in the experience of the Spirit. The Spirit's universal availability is a cornerstone of the church's identity, empowering every member for ministry and witness. Thus, καίγε highlights a pivotal theological truth: God's grace is boundless, and His Spirit is poured out generously upon all who believe, fulfilling His redemptive plan to draw all humanity into fellowship with Him.
### Summary
καίγε (kaíge, `{{G2534}}`) is an emphatic compound conjunction meaning "and indeed," "and even," or "and at least." Though extremely rare in the New Testament, its single occurrence in **Acts 2:18** is highly significant. Here, in Peter's Pentecost sermon, it underscores the radical inclusivity of the Holy Spirit's outpouring, extending God's prophetic gift "even upon My male servants and upon My female servants." This emphatic assertion highlights the breaking down of social and gender barriers in the new covenant, revealing God's impartial and expansive grace. The word, though small, powerfully conveys the theological truth that God's Spirit is poured out universally, empowering all believers for His purposes, regardless of their societal standing.
TRV