The Greek word toû, represented by G5120, is a possessive term translated as his. It appears 1 times across 1 unique verses in the Bible. Its base definition indicates it is the genitive case of the definite article, used to show possession or origin, specifically "of this person."
The single appearance of G5120 is found in Acts 17:28, during a speech where the apostle Paul addresses an audience in Athens. He states that our very existence is dependent on God, saying, "For in him we live, and move, and have our being." To support this, he quotes a sentiment familiar to his listeners from their own culture: "as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring." In this context, "his" directly connects humanity to God, establishing a relationship of origin.
Several related words in the surrounding verse clarify the meaning of this relationship:
- G1085 génos (offspring): This word, meaning "kin," "stock," or "offspring," is the object of the possessive "his" G5120. It defines the nature of the relationship as one of a shared source or family Acts 17:28.
- G846 autós (him): This pronoun is used earlier in the verse to refer to God, stating that "in him we live" Acts 17:28. The word toû G5120 points back to this antecedent, making it clear that it is God to whom we belong.
- G2070 esmén (we are/have our being): This verb, meaning "we are," appears twice in the verse, first to state "we have our being" in God, and second to declare "we are also his offspring." It establishes the state of being that is defined by its connection to God Acts 17:28.
- G4163 poiētḗs (poets): Translated as "poets" or "doers," this word highlights that Paul is drawing upon a source his audience would recognize to establish a common ground for his theological point Acts 17:28.
The theological weight of G5120 in its single use is significant:
- Divine Source of Humanity: The phrase "his offspring" G5120 G1085 makes a direct claim about the origin of all people. It establishes that humanity is not an accident but finds its source and lineage in God.
- Universal Dependence: This possessive relationship is built upon the preceding declaration that in God "we live, and move, and have our being" Acts 17:28. The word "his" affirms that our very existence is sustained by and belongs to Him.
- A Bridge for the Gospel: By using G5120 within a quote from Greek poets, the text demonstrates a method of connecting biblical truth to a non-believing culture. The concept that humanity is "his offspring" serves as a foundational truth to introduce the nature of the one true God.
In summary, while appearing only once, G5120 is a crucial word that functions as a theological anchor. Its use in Acts 17:28 defines the fundamental relationship between Creator and creation. The word toû encapsulates the truth that humanity belongs to God, serving as the possessive pronoun that affirms we are "his offspring" and find our ultimate identity and existence in Him.
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