from the base of πέραν; an enclitic particle significant of abundance (thoroughness), i.e. emphasis; much, very or ever:--(whom-)soever.
Transliteration:per
Pronunciation:per
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### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek particle G4007 (περ) is an enclitic, meaning it attaches to the end of a preceding word, thereby modifying its force. Its primary function is to add emphasis, thoroughness, or a sense of abundance to the word it modifies. Derived from the base of πέραν `{{G4008}}`, meaning "beyond" or "across," περ conveys a sense of going to the extreme or encompassing all possibilities. Its semantic range includes nuances such as "much," "very," "ever," and in combination with relative pronouns, it gives rise to the sense of "soever" (e.g., "whosoever," "whatsoever"), indicating universality or exhaustiveness. It serves to intensify the meaning, ensuring that a statement is understood with precision and without exception.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While περ does not appear as a standalone word in the New Testament, its force is powerfully expressed through various compound words. The most common and illustrative examples are καθάπερ (kathaper, "just as, exactly as") and ὥσπερ (hosper, "just as, even as"). In these compounds, περ underscores the exact correspondence or precise manner of an action or state.
For instance, καθάπερ is used in [[Romans 4:6]], "just as David also describes the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works." Here, περ emphasizes the precise nature of David's description, affirming the exact method of divine imputation. Similarly, in [[Romans 11:2]], "Or do you not know what the Scripture says in the passage about Elijah, how he pleads with God against Israel, saying," καθάπερ highlights the exact account in the Scriptures.
ὥσπερ functions similarly, often establishing a foundational comparison for theological arguments. In [[Romans 5:12]], "Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into the world, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men, because all sinned," ὥσπερ establishes the exact parallel between Adam's sin and its universal consequence. This precise analogy is vital for understanding the subsequent argument about Christ's righteousness. Another profound example is [[1 Corinthians 15:22]], "For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive." The particle περ within ὥσπερ ensures that the comparison between Adam and Christ is understood as an exact, divinely ordained parallel.
When combined with relative pronouns, περ creates universalizing terms. For example, ὅσπερ (hosper, "whosoever indeed") can be found in [[Acts 27:25]], where Paul declares, "Therefore take courage, men, for I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told." Here, ὅσπερ reinforces the absolute certainty and exactness of God's promise.
### Related Words & Concepts
The foundational connection of περ to πέραν `{{G4008}}` ("beyond," "across") is crucial, as it explains the particle's inherent sense of thoroughness or going to the limit. Other Greek particles and adverbs that serve to intensify or emphasize include γε `{{G1065}}` ("indeed," "at least"), δέ `{{G1161}}` (often a connective, but can add emphasis), and καί `{{G2532}}` ("even," "also"). However, περ stands out for its specific contribution to exactness and universality, particularly in its compound forms. It frequently combines with relative pronouns like ὅς `{{G3739}}` and ὅστις `{{G3748}}`, and with conjunctions/adverbs like καθά `{{G2505}}` and ὡς `{{G5613}}`, to form more complex expressions that convey precise or exhaustive scope. The concept of divine precision and comprehensive truth is deeply intertwined with the function of περ.
### Theological Significance
While περ does not possess an independent theological meaning, its anclitic function profoundly impacts the theological weight and precision of the statements it modifies. By adding emphasis and thoroughness, περ enhances the certainty and reliability of biblical declarations. In the hands of New Testament authors, particularly Paul, its use in compounds like καθάπερ and ὥσπερ is instrumental in establishing precise theological parallels and foundational doctrines. The exactness conveyed by περ in these contexts is vital for understanding the coherence and internal logic of salvation history, the nature of sin and righteousness, and the work of Christ. For instance, the precise "just as... so also" structure enabled by ὥσπερ in Romans 5 and 1 Corinthians 15 is indispensable for articulating the doctrines of original sin, imputation, and resurrection. Furthermore, when περ contributes to "whosoever" formulations, it underscores the universal scope of God's salvific plan or the breadth of His judgments, emphasizing that no one is excluded from the reach of divine truth or consequence. Thus, περ serves as a subtle yet powerful linguistic tool that buttresses the certainty and comprehensive nature of God's revelation.
### Summary
G4007 (περ) is an enclitic Greek particle that functions to add emphasis, thoroughness, or a sense of abundance to the word it modifies. Derived from πέραν `{{G4008}}`, it conveys a sense of going "beyond" or encompassing all. Though not appearing independently, its force is evident in compounds like καθάπερ and ὥσπερ, where it signifies exact correspondence, as seen in crucial theological arguments in Romans and 1 Corinthians. It also contributes to universalizing terms like "whosoever." Theologically, περ enhances the precision, certainty, and comprehensive scope of biblical statements, underscoring the exactness of divine patterns, prophecies, and the universal reach of God's truth and grace.
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