ἐὰν
eán
if
A particle introducing a conditional element, typically translated as 'if' when joined with subjunctive verbs; signals an event or circumstance regarded as indefinite, possible, or contingent, rather than definite or actual. Functions in clauses where the outcome depends on whether a certain condition is met.
Matthew 16:19 · Word #11
Lexicon G1437
| Lemma | ἐάν |
| Transliteration | eán |
| Strong's | G1437 |
| Definition | A particle introducing a conditional element, typically translated as 'if' when joined with subjunctive verbs; signals an event or circumstance regarded as indefinite, possible, or contingent, rather than definite or actual. Functions in clauses where the outcome depends on whether a certain condition is met. |
Morphology T
All morphology codes
| Part of Speech | |
Common Translation
| Phrase | if |
| Literal | if-ever |
Lexical Info
| Lemma | ἐάν |
| Strong's | G1437 |
SIBI-P1 Translation G1437-01
if
| Morphological Notes | Subordinating conjunction (conditional particle); compound of εἰ (if) + ἄν (modal particle of contingency), signaling potential or indefinite condition. |
| Rendering Rationale | "If" directly reflects the compound εἰ + ἄν, marking a condition viewed as potential or contingent rather than certain. As a subordinating conjunction, it introduces an indefinite conditional clause, typically with the subjunctive. |
View full lexicon entry for G1437 →
SILEX v2
SIBI-P2 (Context-Aware)
you bind
| Same as P1 | No — adjusted for context |
| Rationale | P1's 'you may bind' is overly modal; Greek subjunctive with ἐὰν here conveys general conditional action, better rendered as 'you bind' (mirroring standard English conditional). |