τοίνυν (toinun)
toinun
then
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 4 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The particle toinun functions as a logical connector, translating most naturally to "therefore," "so then," or "accordingly." It appears in only four New Testament verses, primarily within Luke, 1 Corinthians, and Hebrews. In these contexts, it signals that the following statement is a conclusion drawn from what has just been said, serving as a bridge between an argument and its practical application.
Etymologically, the word combines two elements to emphasize certainty: the particle toi ("indeed") and nun ("now"). This combination creates a sense of decisive inference, stronger than a simple "then." Translators often render it simply as "therefore" or "so," capturing its role in moving the narrative or argument forward with clarity. For instance, Paul uses it to summarize his conduct in 1 Corinthians 9:26, grounding his teaching in his own example.
Its usage is strictly inferential. It does not introduce a new topic but rather draws out the necessary implication of previous statements. In Hebrews 13:13, for example, it links the call to go outside the camp with the reason why believers should do so. The word ensures the reader understands that the instruction is not arbitrary but logically required by the preceding truth.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
The word toinun acts as a firm bridge between what we believe and how we live. It translates most naturally as "therefore" or "so then," signaling that the next step is a direct result of the truth just stated. This particle does not introduce a random thought; it draws out the necessary implication of previous statements, ensuring that our actions are grounded in logic and faith rather than whim.
When you encounter this word in Scripture, it invites you to see the connection between doctrine and daily conduct. For instance, Paul uses it in 1 Corinthians 9:26 to explain his disciplined life as a logical outcome of his message. It reminds us that our spiritual running has a clear direction, not aimlessness. This clarity helps us move forward with confidence, knowing our steps are supported by the weight of prior truth.
Ultimately, toinun encourages a faithful response to God's word. Whether in Jesus' teaching about Caesar or the call to bear reproach in Hebrews, it links heavenly reality to earthly action. It assures us that our choices matter and are deeply connected to who God is. Let this logical flow strengthen your trust that every step of faith is purposeful.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 4 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- therefore2×
- Therefore2×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- τοίνυν4×
Key Verses
-
Luke 20:25
He said to them, “Then give to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.”
This occurrence marks the decisive conclusion Jesus draws from the question about taxes, linking political obligation directly to spiritual devotion.
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I Corinthians 9:26
I therefore run like that, not aimlessly. I fight like that, not beating the air,
Paul uses this connector to ground his personal discipline in his previous theological arguments, showing that his conduct is a logical result of his message.
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Hebrews 13:13
Let’s therefore go out to him outside of the camp, bearing his reproach.
Here the word bridges the reason for Christ's suffering outside the camp with the practical call for believers to join him in bearing reproach.