### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek phrase **hó esti**, represented by `{{G3603}}`, functions as a connector that means **"which is"** or **"that is to say."** It appears **11 times** across **11 unique verses** in the Bible. This phrase is used to provide an immediate explanation, translation, or definition of a preceding word or concept, ensuring clarity for the reader.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, `{{G3603}}` is used to clarify terms that might be unfamiliar or symbolic. It provides direct translations, as when the word "Ephphatha" is explained as, "Be opened" [[Mark 7:34]], or when "Corban" is defined as, "a gift" [[Mark 7:11]]. It is also used to equate a physical or common term with a spiritual reality, such as identifying the "sword of the Spirit" as "the word of God" [[Ephesians 6:17]] and Christ's body as "the church" [[Colossians 1:24]]. Finally, it explains symbolic imagery, stating that the lake of fire "is the second death" [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words highlight the function of explanation and being:
* `{{G2076}}` **estí** (is): This verb is a core component of the phrase itself, meaning "he (she or it) is." It establishes the state of being or existence that `{{G3603}}` clarifies, as in the statement that the preparation day "is, the day before the sabbath" [[Mark 15:42]].
* `{{G2059}}` **hermēneúō** (interpret): This word means to translate and directly relates to one of the primary functions of `{{G3603}}`. It appears in contexts of interpretation, such as when the title "King of Salem" is further explained [[Hebrews 7:2]].
* `{{G1577}}` **ekklēsía** (church): This is a key theological term that is explicitly defined using `{{G3603}}`. The phrase clarifies that Christ's body is the church, a foundational concept established elsewhere in scripture [[Matthew 16:18]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G3603}}` lies in its role as a tool for divine clarification, ensuring that essential truths are not misunderstood.
* **Defining Spiritual Identity:** The phrase is used to bestow and explain identity, as when James and John are surnamed Boanerges, "which is, The sons of thunder" [[Mark 3:17]], defining their character.
* **Equating Concepts:** It bridges the physical and spiritual by creating direct equivalencies. The "helmet of salvation" and "sword of the Spirit" are presented as spiritual realities, with the sword explicitly stated as that "which is the word of God" [[Ephesians 6:17]].
* **Clarifying Prophetic Symbolism:** In Revelation, the phrase is vital for interpreting apocalyptic imagery. A man's measure is defined as that "of the angel" [[Revelation 21:17]], and the terrifying lake of fire is explained as that "which is the second death" [[Revelation 21:8]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G3603}}` is a precise grammatical instrument used for immediate clarification. It functions as a bridge, translating foreign terms, defining symbolic language, and equating concepts to ensure the reader grasps the intended meaning. From clarifying the value of "two mites, which make a farthing" [[Mark 12:42]] to defining Christ's body as "the church" [[Colossians 1:24]], this phrase removes ambiguity from key biblical passages.
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