τέ

and, both

Definition

The Greek particle τέ (te) is a coordinating conjunction meaning 'and' or 'both,' used to connect words, phrases, or clauses in a close, often correlative pair. It frequently appears in the combination 'τε καί' (te kai), meaning 'both...and...' or 'as well as,' to emphasize the joining of two elements, as seen in Luke 2:16 where the shepherds found Mary, Joseph, and the baby. In some contexts, it can simply link items in a series, such as the various signs mentioned in Luke 21:11. Its usage is generally more literary and formal than the common conjunction καί (kai), adding a sense of balanced connection.

Biblical Usage

τέ is used 192 times in the New Testament, primarily in the Gospels (especially Luke) and Acts, reflecting a more formal or literary style. It often appears in narrative descriptions and lists, such as in Matthew 22:10 where the servants gathered 'both bad and good' (πονηρούς τε καὶ ἀγαθούς). A common pattern is its pairing with καί (kai) in the construction 'τε καί,' which links two closely related ideas, as in Mark 15:36 where someone ran, filled a sponge, put it on a reed, 'and' (τε) gave Him a drink. It is less frequent in the epistles, suggesting its use was more characteristic of historical narration.

Etymology

τέ is a primitive Greek particle, derived from Proto-Indo-European roots related to connection or addition. It is cognate with Latin '-que' (meaning 'and') and Sanskrit 'ca' (also 'and'), indicating its ancient function as a basic conjunction. In Greek, it has always served as a coordinating particle, with its meaning remaining stable as 'and' or 'both,' often used in correlative pairs to emphasize unity between elements.

Semantic Range

In ancient Greek literature, τέ was a standard particle for coordination, often used in formal or poetic contexts to create balanced, rhythmic phrasing. Its usage in the New Testament, particularly in the 'τε καί' construction, reflects this classical style, lending a sense of dignity and precision to the text. Modern readers might overlook its nuance, but it subtly emphasizes the connection between ideas, such as the inclusion of all people (both bad and good in Matthew 22:10) in God's invitation.

καί (kai, G2532) — The primary and more common conjunction 'and,' used for general connection without the formal or correlative emphasis of τέ. δέ (de, G1161) — A conjunction often translated 'but,' 'and,' or 'now,' used to indicate contrast or continuation in narrative, differing from τέ's coordinating function.

Word Details

Scripture References