δήποτε (dēpote)
dēpote
whatever
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 1 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb dēpote carries a generalizing force, often translated as "whatever" or "whenever." It combines the particle de with pote to create an indefinite sense, pointing to any time or any condition without restriction. In the New Testament, it appears only once, in John 5:4, where it describes the pool at Bethesda.
In this specific context, the word modifies a relative clause, effectively meaning "whichever" or "whatever." The text refers to the sick crowd lying there, waiting for the water to be stirred. Dēpote emphasizes that any person in that state, regardless of their specific condition, was part of the scene. This usage highlights the universal nature of the need present at the pool.
The etymology links it to general inquiry or indefinite time. While rare in Scripture, its presence in John 5 underscores the thoroughness of the description. It ensures the reader understands that no one was excluded from the gathering, setting the stage for Jesus' intervention among them.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word dēpote, translated as "whatever," appears in John 5:4 to describe the pool at Bethesda. It emphasizes that any sickness, no matter how specific or severe, was present among those waiting there. This single occurrence highlights the universal nature of human need and suffering.
For your faith, this reminds us that Jesus sees every individual condition. The text shows a crowd gathered for healing, yet it is Jesus who ultimately brings restoration. No ailment is too great or too small for His attention.
This passage invites you to bring your own struggles to Him. Whether your challenges feel overwhelming or quiet, He is present and able to help. You are never alone in your pain, and His grace extends to every part of your life.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 1 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- whatever1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- δήποτε1×
Key Verses
-
John 5:4
for an angel went down at certain times into the pool and stirred up the water. Whoever stepped in first after the stirring of the water was healed of whatever disease he had.
The word dēpote modifies "disease," indicating that any illness whatsoever was present among the sick crowd waiting at the pool.