Original Word: ὦ
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: ó
Pronunciation: o
Phonetic Spelling: (o)
Definition: to be, exist
Meaning: may, might

Word Origin: A primary verb, used only in the present and imperfect tenses, which is a form of the verb "to be."

Corresponding Greek / Hebrew Entries: H1961 (הָיָה, hayah) - to be, become, come to pass

Usage: The Greek verb ὦ (ó) is a form of the verb "to be," which is fundamental in expressing existence, identity, or a state of being. It is often used in various tenses to convey the concept of being or existing. In the New Testament, it is frequently employed in expressions of identity, such as "I am" or "you are," and is integral to many theological statements, particularly those concerning the nature of God and Christ.

Cultural and Historical Background: In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of "being" was central to philosophical discussions, particularly in the works of philosophers like Plato and Aristotle. The verb "to be" was not only a linguistic tool but also a philosophical concept that explored existence and reality. In the Jewish context, the Hebrew equivalent "hayah" (to be) is significant in the Old Testament, especially in God's self-revelation as "I AM" (Exodus 3:14), which is echoed in the New Testament through the use of ὦ.

Word Origin
the subjunctive of eimi, q.v.

may, might

Including the oblique forms, as well as es (ace); e (ay); etc. The subjunctive of eimi; (may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with ei and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be -- + appear, are, (may, might, should) be, X have, is, + pass the flower of her age, should stand, were.

see GREEK eimi

see GREEK ei

η ᾖ ωαν ωάν ώαν e ē êi ē̂iInterlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts