ὅμως
yet, nevertheless
Definition
ὅμως is an adverb meaning 'yet,' 'nevertheless,' or 'even so.' It introduces a contrast or concession, signaling that a statement holds true despite a preceding or opposing circumstance. In John 12:42, it highlights the surprising faith of some rulers 'nevertheless' amid widespread unbelief. In 1 Corinthians 14:7 and Galatians 3:15, it similarly marks a logical continuation or point of comparison ('yet' or 'even') that advances an argument by acknowledging a counterpoint.
Biblical Usage
This word appears only three times in the New Testament, each in a different book (John, 1 Corinthians, Galatians), indicating it is a relatively rare but precise term. It is used in argumentative or explanatory contexts to introduce a contrasting fact or a clarifying example that strengthens the writer's point. For instance, in Galatians 3:15, Paul uses it ('I give an example: even with a man's covenant...') to transition from a general principle to a specific, binding illustration from everyday life.
Etymology
Derived from the Greek ὁμός (homos), meaning 'same' or 'common,' with an adverbial suffix. Its core idea evolved from 'in the same way' or 'all the same' to convey the concessive sense of 'nevertheless'—something that holds true in spite of differences or obstacles.
Semantic Range
Though not a major theological term, ὅμως enriches reading by highlighting the biblical pattern of God's work persisting against human opposition or expectation. In John 12:42, it underscores that faith can emerge even in hostile environments, reflecting divine grace amid rejection. Understanding this nuance helps readers see how biblical authors construct arguments that acknowledge reality yet affirm God's purposes.
In ancient Greek rhetoric, such concessive adverbs were important for constructing logical arguments and making nuanced distinctions. Its use aligns with common Hellenistic literary and dialogical patterns, where acknowledging an opposing view before refuting or qualifying it was a standard persuasive technique.
ἀλλά (alla, G235) — a stronger, more common adversative conjunction meaning 'but,' often signaling a direct contrast rather than a concession. καίτοι (kaitoi, G2543) — another concessive particle meaning 'and yet' or 'although,' used in more formal or literary contexts.
Word Details
How this works
Definitions are from the Dodson Greek-English Lexicon, a concise public-domain resource suitable for introductory word study. Brief glosses are supplemented by STEPBible TBESG data (CC BY 4.0). For advanced research, standard scholarly references include BDAG (Danker, 3rd ed.) and LSJ.
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