Greek · Strong's G3739
ὅς
hós (hos)
pronoun
A relative pronoun widely used in the New Testament to connect clauses, introduce explanations, and refer to antecedents.
*Hos* is a versatile relative pronoun in Greek, appearing frequently throughout the New Testament to link clauses and provide additional information about a preceding noun or pronoun. Its primary function is to introduce a relative clause, which acts like an adjective, modifying an antecedent. Depending on context, *hos* can be translated as "who," "which," or "that." This broad semantic range allows it to refer to persons, objects, or even entire concepts, making it a crucial element for understanding the flow and relationships of ideas in Greek sentences.
While *hos* is a common grammatical connector, its theological significance often lies in what it connects rather than its inherent meaning. For instance, it frequently introduces characteristics or actions of God, Christ, or the Holy Spirit, highlighting their roles or attributes. It can also point to people or events of theological importance, grounding abstract concepts in concrete realities. The sheer frequency of its use underscores its vital role in constructing theological arguments and narratives.
In some contexts, *hos* can carry a demonstrative force, meaning it can function similarly to "this one" or "that one," though this is less common than its relative use. Its grammatical flexibility allows New Testament authors to draw precise connections between different parts of their messages, ensuring clarity and precision in their theological statements. Careful attention to the antecedent and the accompanying verb within the relative clause is essential for accurate interpretation.
Common English renderings
- who
- which
- that
- what
Key verses
"who is he that condemneth? It is Christ Jesus that died, yea rather, that was raised from the dead, who is at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us."
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"And out of the throne proceed lightnings and voices and thunders. And there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God;"
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"how he entered into the house of God, and ate the showbread, which it was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them that were with him, but only for the priests?"
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"And when they came unto the place which is called The skull, there they crucified him, and the malefactors, one on the right hand and the other on the left."
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"The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show unto his servants, even the things which must shortly come to pass: and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John;"
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"Nevertheless death reigned from Adam until Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the likeness of Adam’s transgression, who is a figure of him that was to come."
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