Greek · Strong's G2071
ἔσομαι
ésomai (EH-so-my)
verb
The future tense of the verb "to be," indicating existence, occurrence, or status in a future time.
The Greek term *ésomai* is the future tense of the verb "to be" (*eimi*). As such, its primary meaning revolves around existence, the state of being, or the occurrence of an event in time to come. Its semantic range is broad, encompassing simple statements of future fact (e.g., "it shall be done") to more theologically profound declarations about the nature of God, humanity's destiny, and the future reality of God's kingdom. It frequently functions as a copula, linking a subject to a predicate, and thereby defining what something or someone "will be" or "will become."
In theological contexts, *ésomai* often highlights divine promises and prophetic declarations, underscoring the certainty of God's future actions and the fulfillment of His plans. When God declares what "shall be," it carries the weight of His unchangeable will and power, providing assurance of future events, judgments, or blessings. This includes pronouncements about the end times, the new heavens and new earth, and the eternal state of believers. The word also appears in ethical contexts, indicating a predicted outcome or consequence of certain actions or attitudes.
While *ésomai* itself does not carry intrinsic theological weight beyond its future tense implications, its significance is derived from the subject and context in which it appears. For example, when used of Christ, it speaks to His future reign and the eternal nature of His kingdom. When applied to believers, it points to their future glorification and likeness to Christ. Its frequent use in prophetic and eschatological passages emphasizes the certainty of God's plan for redemption and consummation.
Common English renderings
- shall be
- will be
- come to pass
- may have
- fall
Key verses
"And there shall be night no more; and they need no light of lamp, neither light of sun; for the Lord God shall give them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever."
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"and he shall wipe away every tear from their eyes; and death shall be no more; neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain, any more: the first things are passed away."
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"Beloved, now are we children of God, and it is not yet made manifest what we shall be. We know that, if he shall be manifested, we shall be like him; for we shall see him even as he is."
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"But God said unto him, Thou foolish one, this night is thy soul required of thee; and the things which thou hast prepared, whose shall they be?"
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"and he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end."
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