### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **ṓn**, represented by `{{G5607}}`, is the present participle of the verb "to be," primarily meaning **being**. It appears **161 times** across **154 unique verses** in the Bible. This word is crucial for describing a continuous state of existence, a person's inherent nature, or the condition in which an action takes place.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G5607}}` is used to establish fundamental truths about both God and humanity. It describes God's eternal nature, as seen in the declaration, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which **is**, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty" [[Revelation 1:8]]. The word also defines the divine essence of Christ, who is described as **being** "the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person" [[Hebrews 1:3]]. In contrast, it is used to describe humanity's condition apart from God, such as "while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" [[Romans 5:8]] and when believers were "dead in trespasses and sins" [[Ephesians 2:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words provide a fuller understanding of existence and identity:
* `{{G1510}}` **eimí** (I exist): As the root verb from which `{{G5607}}` is derived, this word denotes direct existence, often in an emphatic sense. It is famously used by the Lord in the declaration, "I **am** Alpha and Omega" [[Revelation 1:8]].
* `{{G2076}}` **estí** (he/she/it is): This is the third-person form of the verb "to be" and is frequently used to make statements of fact or identity, such as "there **is** no power but of God" [[Romans 13:1]].
* `{{G1097}}` **ginṓskō** (to "know"): This word connects the state of being with recognition and relationship. The Lord **knoweth** "them that are his," linking his knowledge to their state of **being** his possession [[2 Timothy 2:19]].
### Theological Significance
The theological importance of `{{G5607}}` is profound, as it underpins core doctrines about God's nature and the state of humanity.
* **The Eternal Present:** The term is repeatedly used to describe God's timeless self-existence. He is the one "which **is**, and which was, and which is to come" ([[Revelation 1:4]], [[Revelation 4:8]]), emphasizing His unchanging presence throughout all time.
* **The Divine Essence of Christ:** `{{G5607}}` affirms Christ's deity and his eternal relationship with the Father. He is the Son "**is** in the bosom of the Father" [[John 1:18]] and the one who, concerning the flesh, "**is** over all, God blessed for ever" [[Romans 9:5]].
* **State of Being Before Redemption:** The word defines humanity's natural condition as **being** "without strength" [[Romans 5:6]], "enemies" [[Romans 5:10]], "alienated" [[Colossians 1:21]], and "evil" [[Matthew 7:11]]. This highlights the transformative work of salvation.
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5607}}` is far more than a simple grammatical participle. It is a word of profound theological weight, defining the very essence of existence. It is used to declare the eternal, self-existent nature of God and the divine identity of Christ, while also describing the fallen state of humanity, thereby highlighting the depth and necessity of God's redemptive plan.
TRV