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G1535 ยท Greek ยท New Testament
ฮตแผดฯ„ฮต
Eite
Conjunction
Whether, If, Either...or

Definition

The Greek eite means 'whether' or 'if' and is used in correlative pairs to cover all alternatives: eite...eite = 'whether...or.' Paul deploys it extensively to express the universality of a principle. Romans 12:6-8 lists spiritual gifts with eite: 'if prophecy... if service... if teaching...' In 1 Corinthians 3:22, Paul insists all things belong to believers: 'whether (eite) Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death.'

Usage & Theological Significance

Paul's use of eite...eite in 1 Corinthians 3:21-22 is one of the most sweeping declarations in the NT: all things belong to the believer in Christ โ€” 'whether Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future โ€” all are yours, and you are of Christ, and Christ is of God.' The eite covers every category without exception. The Christian possesses everything because they belong to the one who owns everything. The divisions over human leaders (1 Corinthians 1-4) were absurd in light of this: why divide over instruments when you own the whole orchestra?

Key Bible Verses

1 Corinthians 3:22 whether (eite) Paul or Apollos or Cephas or the world or life or death or the present or the future โ€” all are yours.
Romans 12:7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach.
2 Corinthians 5:9 So we make it our goal to please him, whether (eite) we are at home in the body or away from it.
Philippians 1:27 whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether (eite) I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence.
1 Peter 2:13 Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human authority: whether (eite) to the emperor, as the supreme authority.

Related Words

External Resources