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G2235 · Greek · New Testament
ἤδη
ēdē
Adverb
Already / by now / at this point

Definition

The Greek adverb ēdē (ἤδη) means already, by now, at this point, even now. It appears about 61 times in the NT. It emphasizes that something has come to pass or is presently the case, often with a nuance of surprise, urgency, or theological significance — 'already' as in 'already realized' or 'already in effect.'

Usage & Theological Significance

Ēdē carries significant theological weight in the NT's 'already / not yet' eschatology. In John 3:18, 'Whoever does not believe is condemned ēdē' — judgment is not only future but already operative in the present. In Philippians 3:12, Paul says 'Not that I have ēdē obtained this or am ēdē perfect' — the double use creates a rhythm of honest self-assessment. In Matthew 5:28, Jesus declares that the one who looks with lust has ēdē committed adultery in his heart — the inner act is already the deed. This small adverb repeatedly collapses the distance between the future and the present, between the inner and the outer.

Key Bible Verses

John 3:18 Whoever believes in Him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because He has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
Philippians 3:12 Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me His own.
Matthew 5:28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

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