### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word σέ (G4571) is the accusative singular form of the second-person pronoun σύ (G4771), which means "you" (singular). As an accusative case pronoun, σέ functions as the direct object of a verb or the object of a preposition. Its core meaning is simply "thee" or "you" when referring to a single person who is the recipient of an action. Unlike many nouns or verbs, σέ does not possess a broad semantic range beyond its grammatical function; its meaning is fixed as the objective form of the singular second-person pronoun. Its significance lies not in a complex inherent meaning, but in the profound implications of its usage in various biblical contexts, particularly in direct address between divine and human persons.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
As a fundamental pronoun, σέ appears frequently throughout the New Testament, marking direct and personal address. Its occurrences highlight crucial interactions and declarations.
* In instances of temptation, σέ underscores the personal nature of the challenge. For example, Satan's direct offer to Jesus: "All these things I will give *you* [[Matthew 4:9]] if you will fall down and worship me." Here, σέ emphasizes the specific target of the temptation.
* Jesus's teachings often employ σέ to convey direct instruction or revelation to individuals. To Nicodemus, Jesus declares, "Do not marvel that I said to *you* [[John 3:7]], 'You must be born again.'" The use of σέ personalizes the profound truth of spiritual rebirth. Similarly, in His post-resurrection dialogue with Peter, Jesus's prophecy about Peter's future is intensely personal: "Truly, truly, I say to *you* [[John 21:18]], when you were younger, you used to gird yourself and walk wherever you wished; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will gird you, and bring you where you do not wish to go."
* In divine encounters, σέ marks a direct confrontation or call. The voice from heaven to Saul on the Damascus road directly addresses him: "Saul, Saul, why are *you* [[Acts 9:4]] persecuting Me?" and again, "I am Jesus whom *you* [[Acts 9:5]] are persecuting." This immediate, personal address signifies a pivotal moment of conversion and divine intervention.
* Paul's epistles frequently use σέ in rhetorical questions or direct appeals, drawing the reader into the argument or challenge. In Romans, Paul asks, "Or do *you* [[Romans 2:4]] despise the riches of His kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?" This direct address makes the theological point a personal matter for the recipient.
* In prophetic pronouncements and exultant declarations, σέ can personify abstract concepts, as seen in Paul's triumphant declaration, quoting Hosea: "O Death, where is *your* [[1 Corinthians 15:55]] sting? O Hades, where is *your* [[1 Corinthians 15:55]] victory?"
Across these examples, σέ consistently emphasizes the singular individual as the direct object of an action, statement, or divine address, highlighting the intensely personal nature of human interaction with God, Christ, and one another.
### Related Words & Concepts
σέ (G4571) is intrinsically linked to the broader paradigm of second-person pronouns in Greek. Its root form is σύ (G4771), the nominative singular, meaning "you" (as the subject). Other related forms include:
* σοῦ (G4674): The genitive singular, meaning "your" or "of you."
* σοί (G4672): The dative singular, meaning "to you" or "for you."
These singular forms stand in contrast to their plural counterparts:
* ὑμεῖς (G5210): Nominative plural, "you all."
* ὑμᾶς (G5209): Accusative plural, "you all" (objective).
* ὑμῶν (G5216): Genitive plural, "your" or "of you all."
* ὑμῖν (G5213): Dative plural, "to you all" or "for you all."
The distinction between singular (σέ) and plural (ὑμᾶς) is crucial for understanding the specific scope of an address, whether directed to an individual or a group. The concept conveyed by σέ is that of direct, personal, and often unmediated interaction. It highlights the individual's unique position as the recipient of divine revelation, command, or grace, contrasting with a general or collective address.
### Theological Significance
While σέ is a simple grammatical particle, its theological weight is profound, arising from its consistent use in divine-human discourse.
* **Personal Relationship with God:** The frequent use of σέ underscores the deeply personal nature of God's interaction with humanity. God does not merely address humanity in general, but speaks directly to individuals by name or by personal pronoun, indicating a desire for an intimate, one-on-one relationship. This is evident in calls to discipleship, divine commands, and personal prophecies.
* **Individual Accountability and Call:** When God or Christ addresses an individual with σέ, it often carries a weighty implication of personal responsibility, a specific call to action, or an individual's accountability before divine judgment. The "you" is not generic but particular, demanding a personal response.
* **Intimacy and Pastoral Care:** In Jesus's interactions with His disciples, particularly in moments of profound teaching or comfort, σέ conveys a sense of tender, individual care. His words are not detached pronouncements but personal addresses to the heart of the listener.
* **The Efficacy of Prayer:** The ability of believers to address God directly in prayer, using "You" (or "thee"), reflects the New Covenant reality of direct access to the Father through Christ. It signifies a relationship characterized by unmediated communion and trust.
* **The Uniqueness of Each Soul:** The consistent use of the singular second-person pronoun in pivotal theological moments reinforces the biblical truth that each human being is uniquely created, known, and valued by God. Salvation, sin, and redemption are not merely collective concepts but intensely personal realities for each "thee."
### Summary
σέ (G4571) is the accusative singular form of the Greek second-person pronoun, meaning "thee" or "you." Though grammatically simple, its pervasive use throughout the New Testament carries significant theological weight. It consistently highlights the direct, personal, and often intimate nature of divine-human interaction. Whether in divine command, personal call, prophetic declaration, or intimate discourse, σέ underscores the individual's unique position as the direct recipient of God's address, emphasizing personal accountability, the depth of God's relationship with each soul, and the unmediated access believers have in prayer. Its presence in scripture serves as a constant reminder of the deeply personal engagement between the Creator and His creation.
TRV