ἔπειτα (epeita)
epeita
then
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 15 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The adverb epeita marks a clear sequence of events, translating most often as "then" or "thereafter." It functions as a simple connector in narrative and argument, signaling that one step has concluded and the next is beginning. In the New Testament, it appears fifteen times, helping readers follow the order of actions or logical points without adding emotional weight to the transition.
Its usage frequently establishes a chronological or logical progression. Paul employs it to structure his arguments, such as listing spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:28 or outlining the order of resurrection events in 1 Corinthians 15:46. Hebrews uses it similarly to distinguish between the high priest’s daily duties and his final sacrifice (Hebrews 7:27). The word serves as a structural marker, guiding the reader through the text’s timeline.
While simple, epeita provides necessary clarity in complex passages. It ensures that the relationship between ideas remains distinct, whether describing historical events or theological sequences. Translators consistently render it as "then," preserving its function as a straightforward indicator of what follows in the narrative or argument.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
Life often feels like a series of connected moments, where one event naturally leads to another. The Greek word epeita serves as a simple marker in Scripture, translating as "then" or "thereafter." It does not carry heavy theological weight on its own but acts as a reliable guide through the timeline of biblical narratives and arguments.
When you read passages like 1 Corinthians 15:23, this word helps clarify the order of resurrection events. It reminds us that God’s plan unfolds with purpose and clarity. Whether describing historical steps or logical points in an argument, epeita ensures we understand how one truth builds upon the previous one.
This simplicity offers comfort. You do not need to decipher hidden meanings in every transition. The text is clear, guiding you through the sequence of God’s actions with straightforward language that respects your understanding.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 15 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- then8×
- Then7×
- Thereafter1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ἔπειτα15×
- Ἔπειτα1×
Key Verses
-
I Corinthians 15:23
But each in his own order: Christ the first fruits, then those who are Christ’s at his coming.
This verse uses epeita to distinguish the chronological order between Christ's resurrection and the future gathering of believers, providing essential clarity on eschatological timing.
-
Hebrews 7:27
who doesn’t need, like those high priests, to offer up sacrifices daily, first for his own sins, and then for the sins of the people. For he did this once for all, when he offered up himself.
Here the word contrasts the repeated daily sacrifices of old priests with Christ's single, final offering, highlighting the completeness of His work.
-
I Corinthians 15:46
However, that which is spiritual isn’t first, but that which is natural, then that which is spiritual.
It establishes a logical progression from the natural to the spiritual, helping readers grasp the developmental order in Paul's argument about resurrection bodies.