### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **toutésti**, represented by `{{G5123}}`, is a contraction meaning **that is** or **that is to say**. It appears **17 times** across **17 unique verses** in the Bible. Its primary function is to provide clarification, definition, or a more explicit explanation of a preceding statement or term.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5123}}` is used to ensure clarity in important doctrinal and narrative statements. It translates phrases from other languages, as when Jesus' cry, "Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani," is explained as, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" [[Matthew 27:46]]. It also defines symbolic terms, clarifying that the veil of the temple represents "his flesh" [[Hebrews 10:20]]. Furthermore, it specifies identities, such as identifying him that had the power of death as "the devil" [[Hebrews 2:14]], leaving no room for ambiguity.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide context for the function of `{{G5123}}`:
* `{{G2076}}` **estí** (is): As the second part of the contraction, this word provides the essential meaning of "is" or "to be," forming the basis of the explanatory statement.
* `{{G3004}}` **légō** (to say): This word often appears in the context where `{{G5123}}` is used to clarify what is being said or meant, such as defining the "word of faith, which we preach" [[Romans 10:8]].
* `{{G4561}}` **sárx** (flesh): This term is frequently the subject of clarification by `{{G5123}}`. Paul uses it to specify that the "no good thing" dwelling in him is found "in my flesh" [[Romans 7:18]], and it is used to explain that the veil of the tabernacle is a picture of Christ's flesh [[Hebrews 10:20]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5123}}` lies in its role as an instrument of precision, preventing misunderstanding of critical concepts.
* **Clarifying Spiritual Realities:** The term bridges the physical and the spiritual. It explains that the new tabernacle is "not of this building" [[Hebrews 9:11]] and that the "better country" desired by the faithful is "an heavenly" one [[Hebrews 11:16]].
* **Defining Doctrinal Concepts:** `{{G5123}}` provides precision for key doctrines. It defines the sacrifice of praise as "the fruit of our lips" [[Hebrews 13:15]] and clarifies that the children of the promise, not the children of the flesh, are counted as the seed [[Romans 9:8]].
* **Identifying Christ's Centrality:** The phrase is used to point directly to Jesus. Paul clarifies that John's baptism of repentance pointed to the one who would come after him, "that is, on Christ Jesus" [[Acts 19:4]]. It is also used in questions to emphasize that bringing Christ down from heaven or up from the dead is an act of unbelief [[Romans 10:6-7]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5123}}` functions as a critical tool for precision and understanding in the New Testament. It is not merely a conjunction but an interpretive key that translates foreign phrases, defines crucial theological symbols like the veil [[Hebrews 10:20]], and clarifies abstract concepts such as the "word of faith" [[Romans 10:8]]. By removing ambiguity, **toutésti** ensures that the intended meaning of foundational truths is clearly communicated.
TRV