The Greek word ταύταις (taútais), represented by G5025, is a demonstrative pronoun meaning these or those. It appears 21 times across 21 unique verses in scripture. As the dative and accusative feminine plural form, its function is to point specifically to certain things or concepts being discussed, often answering the implicit question of "which ones?"
In the biblical narrative, G5025 is frequently used to establish a specific timeframe, often in the phrase "in those days" or "in these days" (Luke 6:12, Acts 6:1). This usage marks significant periods, such as the days when the disciples multiplied Acts 6:1 or prophetically significant times foretold by prophets like Samuel Acts 3:24. It is also used to refer directly to tangible objects or specific concepts, such as "these great buildings" Mark 13:2, "these plagues" Revelation 9:20, "these two commandments" Matthew 22:40, or "these parables" Matthew 13:53.
Several key words are often modified by G5025, clarifying its specific reference:
- G2250 hēméra (day): This is the most common noun paired with G5025, used to mark a specific period of time, such as the days following the conception of John the Baptist Luke 1:24 or the time when Peter stood up among the disciples Acts 1:15.
- G4127 plēgḗ (plague): This term, defined as a stroke or calamity, is pointed to by G5025 in the context of divine judgment, identifying "these plagues" as the specific instruments of God's power Revelation 16:9.
- G2347 thlîpsis (afflictions): G5025 is used to specify particular trials, reminding believers not to be moved by "these afflictions" which they are appointed to endure 1 Thessalonians 3:3.
- G1785 entolḗ (commandment): This word for an authoritative prescription is used when Jesus identifies the two greatest commandments, stating that on "these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" Matthew 22:40.
The theological weight of G5025 lies in its ability to focus the reader on concepts of core importance.
- Defining Key Timeframes: By identifying "these days" or "those days," the word anchors pivotal events in salvation history, from the birth of key figures Luke 1:39 to the establishment of the early church (Acts 6:1, Acts 11:27).
- Identifying Core Principles: It points directly to foundational truths, most notably in Matthew 22:40, where "these two commandments" are presented as the bedrock of all scripture. It also highlights the divine "these promises" upon which believers are to build their holiness 2 Corinthians 7:1.
- Specifying Divine Actions: In passages of judgment, G5025 leaves no ambiguity about the source and nature of divine action, referencing "these plagues" over which God has power Revelation 16:9 and which men refused to repent from Revelation 9:20.
In summary, G5025 functions as a crucial linguistic signpost, directing the reader's attention with clarity and emphasis. While a simple demonstrative, its application in scripture is significant, lending weight and specificity to foundational commandments, pivotal periods in history, divine promises, and solemn judgments. It ensures that the reader understands precisely which afflictions, which days, or which principles are being discussed, thereby anchoring abstract ideas to the concrete realities of the biblical text.
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