ὥστε (hōste)
hōste
so
Quick Reference
- Language
- Koine Greek
- Testament
- New Testament
- Occurrences
- 83 verses
- Root
- —
Word Overview
The Greek word hōste functions as a logical connector that translates variously to "so," "therefore," or "so that." It appears eighty-three times in the New Testament, linking a preceding action or statement with its consequence. In passages like Matthew 8:24, it describes the result of a storm arising, while in John 3:16, it connects God’s love to the gift of His Son.
Its meaning shifts based on the grammar that follows. When paired with an infinitive verb, it emphasizes the outcome of an action, as seen when Jesus’ teaching amazed crowds (Mark 1:27). With indicative verbs, it often signals a conclusion or inference, such as Paul’s reasoning in Galatians 3:9 regarding faith and blessing.
Etymologically, the term combines hōs ("as") and ste ("so"), creating a bridge between cause and effect. Translators must choose between rendering it as a result ("so that") or a logical deduction ("therefore"). This flexibility allows the text to flow naturally from observation to application, as seen in Paul’s exhortation to rejoice in Philippians 4:1.
Based on public-domain lexicons (Strong's, Thayer, Gesenius, Brown-Driver-Briggs and others).
What This Word Means for Your Faith
When you read hōste in your Bible, you are seeing a bridge between what God does and what it means for you. It connects His actions to their results. In John 3:16, this word links the vastness of God’s love directly to the gift of His Son. It shows that divine love is not just a feeling; it produces a concrete outcome. The result is eternal life for those who believe.
This connector also appears in moments of human limitation and divine power. In Matthew 8:24, it describes how a storm became so violent the boat was nearly overwhelmed. Here, the word highlights the intensity of the situation before Jesus’ peace arrives. It reminds us that even when circumstances seem to reach their breaking point, God remains present and sovereign.
Understanding this word helps you see the flow of Scripture more clearly. It moves you from observation to application. When you encounter it, pause to consider the consequence. Ask yourself what result follows from God’s character or action. This simple shift in focus can deepen your trust in His promises and your peace in difficult times.
How it's translated
How this word is rendered word-by-word in the 83 verses where it appears, by frequency.
- so that25×
- so as for11×
- so as11×
- Therefore10×
- So then6×
- So5×
- in order for3×
- Therefore,3×
- that2×
- in order2×
- as1×
- Thus1×
Forms in the text
The inflected forms of this word as they appear in Scripture, by frequency.
- ὥστε72×
- Ὥστε,5×
- Ὥστε5×
- ὥστε,1×
Key Verses
-
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only born Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish, but have eternal life.
This occurrence links the magnitude of God's love directly to the provision of His Son, showing that divine affection results in tangible salvation.
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Matthew 8:24
Behold, a violent storm came up on the sea, so much that the boat was covered with the waves; but he was asleep.
Here the word emphasizes the extreme intensity of the storm, setting the stage for Jesus' authority over nature to be revealed.
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Mark 1:27
They were all amazed, so that they questioned among themselves, saying, “What is this? A new teaching? For with authority he commands even the unclean spirits, and they obey him!”
It captures the crowd's astonishment at Jesus' authoritative teaching, showing that His words produced a specific reaction of wonder and questioning.
-
Matthew 19:6
So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, don’t let man tear apart.”
The word underscores the finality of God's joining in marriage, leading to the conclusion that humans should not separate what God has united.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Greek word hōste mean?
How is hōste different from other Greek words for 'therefore'?
Where does hōste appear most frequently?
Why is this word important for understanding John 3:16?
Every Occurrence (83 verses across 14 books)
Matthew 15 verses
Behold, a violent storm came up on the sea, so much that the boat was covered with the waves; but he was asleep.
Matthew 8:28When he came to the other side, into the country of the Gergesenes, two people possessed by demons met him there,…
Matthew 10:1He called to himself his twelve disciples, and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal…
Matthew 12:12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep! Therefore it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath day.”
Matthew 12:22Then one possessed by a demon, blind and mute, was brought to him; and he healed him, so that the blind and mute man…
Matthew 13:2Great multitudes gathered to him, so that he entered into a boat and sat; and all the multitude stood on the beach.
Matthew 13:32which indeed is smaller than all seeds. But when it is grown, it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that…
Matthew 13:54Coming into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, so that they were astonished and said, “Where did this…
Matthew 15:31so that the multitude wondered when they saw the mute speaking, the injured healed, the lame walking, and the blind…
Matthew 15:33The disciples said to him, “Where could we get so many loaves in a deserted place as to satisfy so great a multitude?”
Matthew 19:6So that they are no more two, but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, don’t let man tear apart.”
Matthew 23:31Therefore you testify to yourselves that you are children of those who killed the prophets.
Matthew 24:24For false christs and false prophets will arise, and they will show great signs and wonders, so as to lead astray, if…
Matthew 27:1Now when morning had come, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to…
Matthew 27:14He gave him no answer, not even one word, so that the governor marveled greatly.