ἴσθι
ísthi
G2468
SILEX Entry
Definition
Second person singular imperative present of εἰμί, meaning 'be' in the sense of calling or commanding someone to exist in a certain state, condition, or way. Used as an exhortation or instruction for someone to 'be' (or become) something: to embody, remain, or act in a specified manner.
Semantic Range
be, exist, continue, become, embody, agree (idiomatic), devote oneself (idiomatic), remain
Root / Etymology
Second person singular imperative present of the verb εἰμί (to be, to exist).
Historical & Contextual Notes
ἴσθι is the standard Greek form for the second person singular present imperative of 'to be.' Its use is primarily as a direct command or exhortation in dialogue, speeches, or instructions, including in both literary and documentary contexts from Classical through Koine Greek. In the Septuagint and New Testament, ἴσθι often functions in ethical commands, practical exhortations, or statements of identity (e.g., 'be strong,' 'be ready,' 'be faithful'). Some English translations render idiomatic uses less literally (e.g., 'agree,' 'devote yourself') where the imperative 'be' carries a sense of assuming a role, attitude, or practice. Notably, Koine Greek often uses ἴσθι as a formula in commands where English would prefer descriptive or modal expressions ('you must be,' 'become').
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
second person imperative present of εἰμί; be thou:--+ agree, be, X give thyself wholly to.
Root Family
εἰμ- (eíēn) — to be, to exist
| Strong's | Lemma | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|
| G1498 | εἴην | |
| G1510 | εἰμί | the |
| G1511 | εἶναι | |
| G1526 | εἰσί | |
| G1751 | ἔνειμι | things being within |
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.