### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word αὐτοῦ (transliterated autoû, Strong's `{{G847}}`) is formally the genitive singular masculine/neuter form of the pronoun αὐτός (`{{G846}}`). However, as a distinct lexical entry (`{{G847}}`), it functions exclusively as an adverb of place. Its core meaning denotes location, specifically "in this (or that) place," often translated as "here" or "there." Unlike the pronominal uses of αὐτός, which can mean "himself," "herself," "itself," or simply "he/she/it," `{{G847}}` has specialized to convey a precise spatial reference. It points to a specific, often previously mentioned or contextually understood, location, emphasizing the very spot where an action occurs or a state exists. This adverbial usage is distinct and should not be confused with the genitive case of the pronoun αὐτός when it functions pronominally (e.g., "of him," "his").
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
While a seemingly simple adverb, `{{G847}}` plays a vital role in grounding biblical narratives in specific geographical and situational contexts. It appears numerous times throughout the New Testament, anchoring events to particular places.
In [[Matthew 17:4]], during the Transfiguration, Peter, overwhelmed by the divine glory, exclaims, "Lord, it is good for us to be autoû (here)." Peter's desire is to prolong the sacred moment by building shelters *at that very spot*, indicating a profound sense of the divine presence localized in that place. The adverb emphasizes the immediate, hallowed ground.
Similarly, in [[John 11:21]], Martha confronts Jesus after Lazarus's death, stating, "Lord, if you had been autoû (here), my brother would not have died." The force of autoû underscores Martha's belief that Jesus' physical presence *at that specific location* during Lazarus's illness would have averted tragedy. It highlights the perceived importance of Christ's immanence and immediate proximity.
In [[Acts 1:10]], as Jesus ascends into heaven, two men in white robes ask the disciples, "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into heaven autoû (here)?" The question uses autoû to challenge their lingering gaze *at that specific spot* on the Mount of Olives, redirecting their attention from passive observation to the coming mission. This usage emphasizes the location as a point of transition and a call to action.
These examples illustrate that `{{G847}}` is not merely a filler word but precisely locates actions, states, and divine encounters, thereby shaping the reader's understanding of the narrative's spatial dimension.
### Related Words & Concepts
The primary word related to `{{G847}}` is its root, αὐτός (`{{G846}}`), the intensive and reflexive pronoun. While `{{G846}}` has a broad semantic range (meaning "self," "same," or acting as a simple personal pronoun), `{{G847}}` represents a specific adverbialization of its genitive form.
Other Greek adverbs of place include:
* **ὧδε (`{{G5602}}`)**: Also meaning "here," often indicating present location or direction towards the speaker. While similar to `{{G847}}`, `{{G5602}}` can carry a stronger sense of immediacy or invitation ("come here").
* **ἐκεῖ (`{{G1563}}`)**: Meaning "there," referring to a place distant from the speaker or context.
* **πόθεν (`{{G4227}}`)**: Meaning "from where?"
`{{G847}}` often carries a nuance of "at the very spot" or "in that same place," implying a fixed or previously established location. It can serve to emphasize the continuity of presence or action at a particular site, distinguishing it from more general adverbs of location. Its derivation from the genitive of `{{G846}}` subtly imbues it with a sense of belonging *to that same spot* or *of that very place*.
### Theological Significance
While `{{G847}}` is a grammatical particle, its consistent use underscores the biblical emphasis on the particularity of divine action and presence in specific locations. The "here" or "there" often marks a locus of revelation, healing, or significant theological event.
1. **Divine Immanence and Presence:** When `{{G847}}` is used in contexts of divine encounter (e.g., the Transfiguration in [[Matthew 17:4]]), it highlights God's willingness to manifest His glory and presence in specific, tangible places. It speaks to the immanence of God, who is not merely transcendent but actively engages with humanity within the confines of space and time.
2. **Sacred Space:** The repeated use of `{{G847}}` can implicitly designate certain locations as sacred or significant due to divine activity. The "here" where Christ performs a miracle, teaches, or appears post-resurrection becomes a place imbued with spiritual meaning.
3. **Human Response to Location:** The adverb also illuminates human reactions to these specific divine encounters. Peter's desire to remain "here" ([[Matthew 17:4]]) reflects a longing to dwell in the immediate presence of glory. Martha's lament "if you had been here" ([[John 11:21]]) underscores the human hope for divine intervention in the present moment and place of suffering.
4. **Direction and Mission:** In contexts like the Ascension ([[Acts 1:10]]), the question "why do you stand looking into heaven autoû (here)?" serves as a theological pivot, calling the disciples from passive observation of a past event *at that place* to active participation in a future mission. The "here" becomes a launching point for the spread of the Gospel.
Thus, `{{G847}}`, though small, contributes to the rich tapestry of biblical theology by grounding the divine narrative in concrete, meaningful locations.
### Summary
The Greek word autoû (`{{G847}}`) is an adverb of place, derived from the genitive of autos (`{{G846}}`), meaning "in this (or that) place," "here," or "there." Its unique function is to precisely locate actions or states within a narrative, emphasizing the specific spot. In biblical occurrences, `{{G847}}` serves to anchor significant events to particular geographical contexts, such as Peter's desire to remain on the Mount of Transfiguration ([[Matthew 17:4]]), Martha's lament at Lazarus's tomb ([[John 11:21]]), or the disciples' lingering gaze at the Ascension ([[Acts 1:10]]). Theologically, it subtly underscores the immanence of God, the sacredness of specific locations where divine encounters occur, and the human response to such presence. While a simple adverb, `{{G847}}` plays a crucial role in conveying the spatial reality of biblical events and their profound theological implications.
TRV