Something to Chew On: Dative Articular Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

τῷ + Infinitive

The following examples of this structure were not categorized because of fragmentary or corrupt texts and/or sufficient lack of clarity regarding syntactical functions: Polyb.; Meg.; Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Tob; 1 Macc; 2 Macc; Ps; Sir; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa; Amat. narr.; Geogr.; Diod.; 1 En.; Sib. Or.; 3 Bar.; T. Reu.; T. Sim.; T. Levi; T. Jud.; T. Iss.; T. Zeb.; T. Dan; T. Naph.; T. Gad; T. Ash.; T. Jos.; T. Benj.; T. Ab.; Let. Aris.; Jub.; Jos. Asen.; Apoc. Mos.; Liv. Pro.; 4 Bar.; 3 Macc.; 4 Macc.; Pss. Sol.; Opif.; Abr.; Ios.; Mos.; Decal.; Spec.; Virt.; Praem.; Exsecr.; Nat. d.; A.J.; C. Ap.; 1 Regn.; 2 Regn.; 3 Regn.; 4 Regn.; Lib. myth.; Tyr.; Ven.; Virt.; Isthm.; Serv.; Troj.; Dei cogn.; Exil.; 1 Serv. lib.; 2 Serv. lib.; Aegr.; Avar.; Dic. exercit.; Aud. aff.; Sec.; Pulchr.; De pace; Fel. sap.; Fel.; Gen.; Consult.; Compot.; 2 Melanc.; 1 Melanc.; Charid.; Rhod.; Alex.; 1 Tars.; 2 Tars.; Cel. Phrygg.; Borsyth.; Cor.; Nicom.; Nicaeen.; Conc. Apam.; Apam.; Dial.; Pol.; Grat.; Def.; Tumult.; Cont.; In cont.; Rec. mag.; Admin.; Geogr.; Diod.; Philoct. arc.; Hom.; Socr.; Hom. Socr.; Regn.; Nest.; Achill.; Philoct.; Ness.; Chrys.; Regn. tyr.; 1 Fort.; 2 Fort.; 3 Fort.; 1 Glor.; 2 Glor.; 3 Glor.; Virt.; De philosophia; De philosophio; Hab.; Fid.; Diffid.; De lege; Consuet.; Invid.; Divit.; Lib.; P. Oxy.; Diatr.; Ench.; Chaer.; Leuc. Clit.; 1 Clem.; 2 Clem.; Ign. Eph.; Ign. Magn.; Ign. Trall.; Ign. Rom.; Ign. Phld.; Ign. Smyrn.; Ign. Pol.; Pol. Phil.; Mart. Pol.; Did.; Barn.; Herm. Vis.; Herm. Mand.; Herm. Sim.; Diogn.; Fr. Pap. .

1. Cause (Reason)

Definition

The infinitive frequently provides the reason or basis for the action of the main verb. It answers the question, “Why?”

Translation Aids

The main clause occurs or is true “because of” or “on the basis of” the action or state of the infinitive.

Clarification

Causal infinitives are distinct from means infinitives, in that the latter provide the instrument which is used to accomplish the main verb. It answers, “How?” Yet, a distinction between the two is not always clear. This function is also distinct from purpose infinitives, in that “the causal infinitive gives a retrospective answer (i.e., it looks back to the ground or reason), while the purpose infinitive gives prospective answer (looking forward to the intended result).” That is, these infinitives provide the reason not the goal of the main verb.

Hewlett (2:442) and Allen (330) make a separate category for “point of difference,” but these seem to still contain the reason for a distinction or superiority among two parties. (Polyb. 1.27.11; 1.28.4; 1.51.4; 2.37.11; 2.55.6; 5.48.14)

Clear Examples

Jewish:

4 Macc. 17:20–21 καὶ οὗτοι οὖν ἁγιασθέντες διὰ θεὸν τετίμηνται οὐ μόνον οὖν ταύτῃ τῇ τιμῇ, ἀλλὰ καὶ τῷ δι᾽ αὐτοὺς τὸ ἔθνος ἡμῶν τοὺς πολεμίους μὴ ἐπικρατῆσαι, 21καὶ τὸν τύραννον τιμωρηθῆναι καὶ τὴν πατρίδα καθαρισθῆναι ὥσπερ ἀντίψυχον γεγονότας τῆς τοῦ ἔθνους ἁμαρτίας

And these then, having been consecrated on account of God, have been honored not only because of this, but also because our enemies did not seize our nation because of them, 21and the tyrant was punished and our land was purified, just as they became a ransom for the sin of our nation.

*Abr. 1.19 εὖ δ᾽ εἴρηται τὸ “οὐχ ηὑρίσκετο” ἐπὶ τοῦ μετατεθειμένου, τῷ τὸν ἀρχαῖον καὶ ἐπίληπτον ἀπαληλίφθαι βίον καὶ ἠφανίσθαι καὶ μηκέθ᾽ εὑρίσκεσθαι, καθάπερ εἰ μηδὲ τὴν ἀρχὴν ἐγένετο, ἢ τῷ τὸν μετατιθέμενον καὶ ἐν τῇ βελτίονι ταχθέντα τάξει δυσεύρετον εἶναι φύσει

Now “he was not found” is spoken well about the one who was transferred, because of the ancient and culpable life having been erased and removed and no longer being found, just as if he never existed from the beginning, or because of the one who was transferred and arranged in a better order being difficult to find naturally.

Mos. 1.27 καὶ οἱ ἄλλοι πάντες ἐτεθήπεσαν … τῷ μηδὲν ἔχειν τοῖς πολλοῖς ὅμοιον, ἀλλ᾽ ὑπερκύπτειν καὶ πρὸς τὸ μεγαλειότερον ἐξῆρθαι.

and all the others were amazed … because of him having nothing like the many, but transcended and was raised to a higher level.

*Spec. 3.78 ἡ δέ, κἂν μηδεὶς παρατυγχάνῃ, τῷ ἑκοῦσα συναπᾶραι λέγοιτ᾽ ἂν οὐδὲν διαφέρειν τῆς ἐν ἄστει.

And the other, even if no one arrives to help, might be said to differ in no way from (the one) in the town, because of going together voluntarily.

*Spec. 3.198 ὀδόντες δὲ οἱ μέν εἰσι τομίαι τῷ τέμνειν σιτία καὶ ὅσα ἄλλα ἐδώδιμα, διὰ τοῦτο ταύτης τῆς προσηγορίας ἀξιωθέντες, οἱ δὲ μύλαι τῷ τὰ διατμηθέντα εἰς μείονα λεαίνειν δύνασθαι.

And some teeth are “cutters” because of cutting grains and all other edible things, having been considered worthy of this designation because of this; and others (are) “molars” because of being able to smooth into smaller (pieces) the things being cut.

A.J. 5.185 καὶ τῷ μὴ διὰ τιμῆς ἄγειν τὸν θεὸν μηδὲ τοῖς νόμοις ὑπακούειν ἔτι μᾶλλον ἐκακοῦντο

And because of neither holding God with honor nor obeying the laws, they were still being harmed further.

A.J. 8.32 ἀλλὰ παραδιδόναι τῇ ἑτέρᾳ τὸ παιδίον ὡς ἐκείνης ἀρκεῖσθαι γὰρ τῷ ζῆν αὐτὸ καὶ βλέπειν μόνον

but to hand the child over to the other woman as hers, for (she would) be satisfied with it living and seeing (it) only

The line between cause and means is thin here, so I go with the broader nuance.

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Tob; 1 Macc; 2 Macc; Ps; Sir; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .; 1 En.; Sib. Or.; 3 Bar.; T. Reu.; T. Sim.; T. Levi; T. Jud.; T. Iss.; T. Zeb.; T. Dan; T. Naph.; T. Gad; T. Ash.; T. Jos.; T. Benj.; T. Ab.; Let. Aris.; Jub.; Jos. Asen.; Apoc. Mos.; Liv. Pro.; 4 Bar.; 3 Macc.; 4 Macc.; Pss. Sol.; Opif.; Abr.; Ios.; Mos.; Decal.; Spec.; Virt.; Praem.; Exsecr.; A.J.; C. Ap. .

Greek:

Polyb. 1.68.12 δοκοῦντες οὐχ ἥκιστα δι᾽ ἐκεῖνον ὀλιγωρεῖσθαι τῷ μήτε πρεσβεύειν πρὸς αὐτοὺς τήν τε στρατηγίαν ἑκουσίως δοκεῖν ἀποτεθεῖσθαι

supposing not to be esteemed least because of this (one), because of (him) not being an ambassador to them and appearing to set aside the leadership willingly

Polyb. 2.50.5 περιχαρὴς ἦν τῷ μὴ διὰ κενῆς πεποιῆσθαι τὴν ἐπίνοιαν μηδ᾽ εὑρῆσθαι κατὰ τὴν τῶν Αἰτωλῶν ἐλπίδα τὸν Ἀντίγονον εἰς τέλος ἀπηλλοτριωμένον ἑαυτοῦ.

He was joyful because of the plan having not been made in vain nor Antigonus having been found completely alienated from him according to the hope of the Aetolians.

Polyb. 3.68.9 οἱ δ᾽ ἐν τῇ Ῥώμῃ … ἐξενίζοντο μὲν τῷ τὸ συμβεβηκὸς εἶναι παρὰ τὴν προσδοκίαν

And those in Rome … indeed were astonished because of what occurred being beside the expectation.

Nat. d. 17.18 ὅς δὴ καὶ ἀκαλαρρείτης κέκληται τῷ ἡσύχιόν τι καὶ σχολαῖον τὴν ῥύσιν αὐτοῦ ὡς τὴν τοῦ ἡλίον κίνησιν ἐμφαίνειν καὶ βαθυδίνης τῷ βαθέως δινεῖσθαι

who has also been called “soft-flowing” because of its flow displaying something quiet and leisurely, as the motion of the sun, and “deep-eddying” because of whirling around deeply

Nat. d. 27.14 προστάτης δὲ καὶ σωτὴρ τῶν οἰκείων ἐστὶ τῷ σῴζειν καλῶς τὸν ἴδιον οἶκον καὶ ὑπόδειγμα παρέχειν ἑαυτὸν καὶ τοῖς ἄλλοις.

He is guard and savior of household (things) because of saving his own house well and offers itself as an example even to others.

P. Oxy. 257.23–24 ἐμὲ δὲ [ἐ]ν ἀνεπικρίτοις τετάχθαι τῷ μὴ ἐνδημ[εῖν]

and me being placed among the unselected because of not abiding (there)

P. Oxy. 3555.32-38 καὶ μὴ φέρουσα τὴν περὶ τῆς θεραπαίνης ὀδύνην, τῷ αὐτὴν μὲν κινδυνεύειν τῷ ζῆν

and not bearing distress about the maidservant, because on the one hand of her being in danger with living

Leuc. Clit. 8.10.12 εἰ δὲ ὁ γάμος τῷ τὸν γήμαντα ζῆν οὐκ ἀνῄρηται, τὴν γαμηθεῖσαν διαφθείραντος ἄλλου λῃστεύεται.

But if the marriage has not been annulled because of the one who married (i.e., husband) living, it has been robbed by another corrupting the one given in marriage (i.e., the wife).

One could see this as Cause (evidence), but the point is not proving the marriage is still in tact, but the reason for why “robbery” is involved. There are many reasons for a marriage to still be valid. This is one of them.

Cf. Polyb.; Meg.; Amat. narr.; Geogr.; Diod.; Nat. d.; 1 Regn.; 2 Regn.; 3 Regn.; 4 Regn.; Lib. myth.; Tyr.; Ven.; Virt.; Isthm.; Serv.; Troj.; Dei cogn.; Exil.; 1 Serv. lib.; 2 Serv. lib.; Aegr.; Avar.; Dic. exercit.; Aud. aff.; Sec.; Pulchr.; De pace; Fel. sap.; Fel.; Gen.; Consult.; Compot.; 2 Melanc.; 1 Melanc.; Charid.; Rhod.; Alex.; 1 Tars.; 2 Tars.; Cel. Phrygg.; Borsyth.; Cor.; Nicom.; Nicaeen.; Conc. Apam.; Apam.; Dial.; Pol.; Grat.; Def.; Tumult.; Cont.; In cont.; Rec. mag.; Admin.; Geogr.; Diod.; Philoct. arc.; Hom.; Socr.; Hom. Socr.; Regn.; Nest.; Achill.; Philoct.; Ness.; Chrys.; Regn. tyr.; 1 Fort.; 2 Fort.; 3 Fort.; 1 Glor.; 2 Glor.; 3 Glor.; Virt.; De philosophia; De philosophio; Hab.; Fid.; Diffid.; De lege; Consuet.; Invid.; Divit.; Lib.; P. Oxy.; Diatr.; Ench.; Chaer.; Leuc. Clit.; 1 Clem.; 2 Clem.; Ign. Eph.; Ign. Magn.; Ign. Trall.; Ign. Rom.; Ign. Phld.; Ign. Smyrn.; Ign. Pol.; Pol. Phil.; Mart. Pol.; Did.; Barn.; Herm. Vis.; Herm. Mand.; Herm. Sim.; Diogn.; Fr. Pap. .

2. Direct Object

Definition

QUOTE FROM WALLACE’S DATIVE CHAPTER. Just as the infinitive functions as the subject of a sentence, so it can give the object of the main verb. That is, the infinitive receives the action of the main verb.

Translation Aids

A gerund translation is often appropriate for the infinitive.

Clarification

This function is similar to predicate nominatives, but the main verbs are transitive in nature, not equative. Thus, the infinitive receives the action of the main verb. In these cases, the article τό should be viewed as accusative.

The following verbs typically take a dative direct object.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*Mos. 2.198 ἐπεὶ δὲ καὶ τῷ μὴ σέβειν θεὸν ἕπεται τὸ μήτε γονεῖς μήτε πατρίδα μήτ᾽ εὐεργέτας τιμᾶν

And since honoring neither parents nor homeland nor benefactors follows not worshipping God

A.J. 2.219 ἔγνω μᾶλλον ἐπὶ τούτῳ ποιήσασθαι τὴν τοῦ παιδὸς σωτηρίαν καὶ πρόνοιαν ἢ τῷ λήσεσθαι πεπιστευκώς

he determined rather to trust the safety and care of the child to this (One), than being relying upon escaping notice

C. Ap. 2.295 Ἀπίωνες μὲν καὶ Μόλωνες καὶ πάντες ὅσοι τῷ ψεύδεσθαι καὶ λοιδορεῖν χαίρουσιν ἐξεληλέγχθωσαν

Indeed the Apions and Molones and all as many as rejoice at lying and abusing should be convicted

Greek:

Polyb. 1.23.9 πιστεύοντες δὲ τῷ ταχυναυτεῖν … ἤλπιζον ποιήσασθαι τὰς ἐμβολάς. (verbal)

And believing in sailing quickly … they were hoping to make charges.

Diod. 4.61.7 ἀναβάντα γὰρ εἰς τὴν ἀκρόπολιν, καὶ διὰ τὴν ὑπερβολὴν τῆς λύπης προσκόψαντα τῷ ζῆν, ἑαυτὸν κατακρημνίσαι.

for ascending to the acropolis, and being disgusted with living because of the excess of grief, to throw himself down

LSJ (1517; BDAG, 882) lists multiple meanings of the modified participle with the dative as object regarding disgust, rejection, or taking offense. One could view this as causal use of the dative, though.

3 Regn. (3) 3 τὸν μεγίστην μὲν ἔχοντα δύναμιν μετὰ τοὺς θεούς, κἀλλιστα δὲ τῷ δύνασθαι χρώμενον

indeed having the majestic power after the gods and rightly using being able (i.e., that power)

Diatr. 2.1.1 ὅτι οὐ μάχεται τὸ θαρρεῖν τῷ εὐλαβεῖσθαι

that having courage does not fight being cautious

Diatr. 2.10.5 εἰ προῄδει ὁ καλὸς καὶ ἀγαθὸς τὰ ἐσόμενα, συνήργει ἂν καὶ τῷ νοσεῖν καὶ τῷ ἀποθνῄσκειν καὶ τῷ πηροῦσθαι

If the good and useful (one) knows beforehand the existing (things), he would help even falling sick and dying and being maimed.

Diatr. 2.11.18 τοῦτο … ἀπαλλάσσει μανίας τοὺς μόνῳ τῷ δοκεῖν μέτρῳ πάντων χρωμένους (verbal)

This … releases from madness those using only appearing (as) measure of all things.

Possible Examples (and why they are more likely one or the other). Don’t really need Possible examples from each category, but if there are no clear examples, I could fit a structure here as debated in one or two categories.

Jewish:

Mos. 2.211 σχολάζοντας οὐχ ὡς ἔνιοι γέλωσιν ἢ παιδιαῖς ἢ μίμων ἢ ὀρχηστῶν ἐπιδείξεσι … ἀλλὰ μόνῳ τῷ φιλοσοφεῖν (verbal)

and devoting, not as some, to laughter, or to sports, or exhibitions of actors and dancers … but to only pursuing knowledge

Without an accusative direct object, one can either assume an object (e.g., himself) or take the infinitive as the object of devotion. Either way, we know what he means.

3. Means

Definition

The infinitival form describes the instrumental action that accomplishes the main verb. The infinitive is a separate action that leads to the accomplishment of the main verb. If the means infinitive is removed, the point of the main verb is absent.

Translation Aids

The most common way to introduce an instrumental sense is by inserting “by” before the infinitive.

Clarification

Just as purpose infinitives answer “Why?” so means infinitives answer the question “How?” One should also distinguish means from manner. The latter is typically abstract and merely adds color to the verb. It involves an accompanying attitude or emotion. Means infinitives describe the instrumental action that is necessary to accomplish the main verb. The final, and perhaps most difficult, distinction to make is between means and causal infinitives. “It is not always easy or possible to draw a line between the instrumental and the causal use of the dative infinitive, which sometimes expresses what may be looked upon either as the cause or the means.” Ideally, means is instrumental and at least contains some type of simultaneous action to the main verb. Causal infinitives are antecedent in time and provide the basis or reason for which the state of the verb is true or the action of the verb is done.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*Mos. 1.33 τοὺς μὲν εὐνοίᾳ καὶ τῷ φιλεῖν ἐκθύμως … ἠμείβετο

the ones indeed with goodness and loving vehemently … he was repaying

*Spec. 2.4 ἄξιον ἐπαινεῖν καὶ τούς, εἴ ποτε βιασθεῖεν ὀμνύναι, τῷ μέλλειν καὶ βραδύνειν καὶ ἀποκνεῖν ἐμποιοῦντας δέος οὐ μόνον τοῖς ὁρῶσιν ἀλλὰ καὶ τοῖς προκαλουμένοις εἰς τὸν ὅρκον·

these also being worthy to praise, if they might be forced to swear, making fear not only to those who see but also to those encouraging toward an oath by delaying and hesitating and shrinking away

The line between means and causal is thin here.

*Virt. 1.168 ἵνα μιμήσῃ θεὸν τῷ παραπλήσια χαρίζεσθαι

in order that you may imitate God by giving resembling gifts

A.J. 1:255 καὶ Ἅβραμον τὸν μετὰ τοσαύτης ἀπεσταλκότα σπουδῆς τῷ κατανεῦσαι τὴν κόρην τιμήσατε

and you must honor Abraham, who has sent (me) with such haste, by granting the bride

A.J. 6.279 καὶ οἱ … σπουδάζοντες μὴ μόνον αὐτῷ μηνῦσαι τὸν ἐχθρὸν ἀλλὰ καὶ τῷ παρασχεῖν αὐτὸν εἰς ἐξουσίαν φανερωτέραν καταστῆσαι αὐτῷ τὴν εὔνοιαν

And those eager not only to report the enemy to him but also to present the favor toward him as more evident by offering him into (his) power

A.J. 9.63 καὶ τῷ βλέπεσθαι καὶ φροντίζειν ἀφαιρούμενος καὶ τὸ βούλεσθαί τι τοιοῦτον

and by being seen and taking care, removing also someone desiring such a thing

Greek:

Alex. (32) 95 οὐκοῦν χρὴ καὶ ὑμᾶς ἀντφιλοτιμεῖσθαι καὶ τὴν πατρίδα κρείττω ποιεῖν ... ἀλλ’ εὐταξίᾳ, κόσμῳ, τῷ δεικνύειν ὑμᾶς αὐτοὺς σώφρονας

Therefore then, need is both for you to be jealous and to make (your) homeland better … but with good behavior, with orderliness, with showing yourselves as wise

Diatr. 4.13.16 τίς οὐκ ἄσμενος δέξηται τὸν ὥσπερ φορτίου μεταληψόμενον τῶν αὐτοῦ περιστάσεων καὶ αὐτῷ τούτῳ κουφιοῦντα αὐτὸν τῷ μεταλαβεῖν;

Who will not gladly receiving the one sharing his circumstances as a burden and making it light for this one by sharing?

Ench. 33.16 εἰ δὲ μή, τῷ γε ἀποσιωπῆσαι καὶ ἐρυθριᾶσαι καὶ σκυθρωπάσαι δῆλος γίνου δυσχεραίνων τῷ λόγῳ.

But if not, you must be manifest of being disgusted at the word by maintaining silence and blushing and looking angry.

Chaer. 1.4.2 πλὴν ὑπηγάγετο τὴν μείρακα μεγάλαις δωρεαῖς τῷ τε λέγειν ἀπάγξεσθαι μὴ τυχὼν τῆς ἐπιθυμίας.

But he subjected the young girl with great gifts and by saying to strangle himself, if not obtaining (his) desire.

Possible Examples (and why they are more likely one or the other). Don’t really need Possible examples from each category, but if there are no clear examples, I could fit a structure here as debated in one or two categories.

Greek:

Polyb. 1.46.10 ὁ δὲ Ῥόδιος … οὕτως κατανέστη τῶν πολεμίων τῇ τε τόλμῃ καὶ τῷ ταχυναυτεῖν

But the Rhodian … thus rose up against the enemies both with boldness and with sailing quickly.

LCL 128:143 translates the verb “outbraved.” This infinitive couples with the preceding dative to give the manner or means of the Rhodian’s attack. If “confounded” were a proper translation, it could be causal.

4. Apposition

Definition

“An appositional construction involves two adjacent substantives that refer to the same person or thing and have the same syntactical relation to the rest of the clause.” Appositional infinitives, though, are not always precisely adjacent, since the clause will not always immediately follow the head noun or pronoun. Yet, the basic definition remains, and the following infinitives rename or define a prior substantive. As Wallace notes, “The appositional infinitive typically refers to a specific example that falls within the broad category named by the head noun.”

Translation Aids

There are two primary aids in identifying appositional infinitives. First, one can place a colon after the main clause and notice if the infinitival clause further labels the aforementioned entity. Second, the reader can insert “namely” between the first substantive and the appositional clause. That is, the infinitival clause could very well have taken the place (and function) of the previous substantive.

Clarification

There may be some confusion when discerning whether an infinitive is epexegetical or appositional. Wallace gives the following explanation: “The difference is that the epexegetical infinitive explains the noun or adjective to which it is related, while apposition defines it.” In other words, the epexegetical infinitive modifies a noun or adjective and cannot take its place in the sentence. The appositional infinitive can substitute for its antecedent referent. The reader must be careful then not to mislabel infinitives, particularly with words that can take either type of infinitive (e.g., σημεῖον take an appostional noun in Romans 4:11, “sign of circumcision,” but an epexegetical one in Matthew 24:3, “sign of your coming”).

By definition an appositional infinitive must follow its substantival referent. In addition, most of the examples found in the literature are related to demonstrative pronouns. There are exceptions (e.g., ???), but these are rare.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Opif. 1.128 ἀπὸ τῶν ἄλλων ἀνέχοντας ἔργων ὅσα κατὰ ζήτησιν βίου καὶ πορισμόν, ἑνὶ μόνῳ σχολάζοντας τῷ φιλοσοφεῖν εἰς βελτίωσιν ἠθῶν

keeping away from all other works which are according to seeking and providing for life’s provisions, devoting to one only: to pursuing knowledge for improvement of morals and examination of the conscience

*Exsecr. 1.152 θαυμαζόμενος καὶ μακαριζόμενος ἐπὶ δυσὶ τοῖς καλλίστοις, τῷ τε αὐτομολῆσαι πρὸς θεὸν καὶ τῷ γέρας λαβεῖν οἰκειότατον τὴν ἐν οὐρανῷ τάξιν βεβαίαν

being admired and blessed on account of two most good (things): both in changing sides to God and in taking the firm order in heaven as a most secure privilege

*A.J. 7.384 διὸ ζῶν ἔτι καὶ πρὸς αὐτῷ γεγονὼς ἄρτι τῷ τελευτᾶν παραινῶ σοι ταῦθ᾽

Thus while still living, though having come now to it, to dying, I encourage you about these things

Greek:

Polyb. 4.29.4 καὶ γὰρ κατ᾽ ἰδίαν τὸ τῶν ῥᾳδιουργῶν καὶ κλεπτῶν φῦλον τούτῳ μάλιστα τῷ τρόπῳ σφάλλεται, τῷ μὴ ποιεῖν ἀλλήλοις τὰ δίκαια

Even by themselves the tribe of robbers and swindlers fail especially in this custom: not doing just (things) for one another.

Polyb. 5.38.7 τούτῳ διαφέρων τῶν ἄλλων τῶν ὑπηγμένων εἰς τὰς φυλακάς, τῷ ποιεῖσθαι τὴν δίαιταν ἐν μείζονι δεσμωτηρίῳ

differing from others brought to the prisons in this: making way of life in a larger jail

*Diatr. 2.19.1 κοινῆς γὰρ οὔσης μάχης τοῖς τρισὶ τούτοις πρὸς ἄλληλα, τῷ τὸ πᾶν παρεληλυθὸς ἀληθὲς ἀναγκαῖον εἶναι καὶ τῷ ἀδυνατῷ ἀδύνατον μὴ ἀκολουθεῖν καὶ τῷ μὴ δυνατὸν εἶναι ὃ οὔτ᾽ ἔστιν ἀληθὲς οὔτ᾽ ἔσται

For a general battle being in these three to one another: everything having occurred truly being necessary and an impossible (thing) not following impossible (thing) and what is not true nor will be (true) not being possible

Diatr. 2.19.6 οὐδὲ γέγονα πρὸς τούτῳ, τῷ βασανίσαι τὴν ἐμαυτοῦ φαντασίαν καὶ συγκρῖναι τὰ λεγόμενα καὶ δόγμα τι ἐμαυτοῦ ποιήσασθαι κατὰ τὸν τόπον.

I have not become for this: testing my own imagination and comparing the spoken (things) and making my own certain decree according to the place.

5. Appearance/ “So It Seems”

Definition

The infinitive relates to the main clause to specify that the claim of the verb is only true in appearance. In reality, another circumstance or state is valid.

Translation Aids

To emphasize the appearance of reality, one should insert “so it seems,” “in appearance,” or “appearing to” before the infinitive.

Clarification

This is similar to “Reference,” in that the infinitive presents a situation contrary to reality. However, in these cases the infinitive does not clarify how the main action is actually true. It emphasizes that the situation only “appears” or “seems” to be the case. Often, the text continues to state what is true in reality.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Mos. 1.122 ὁ δ᾽ ὅσα τῷ δοκεῖν ἐφιεὶς ὡμολόγει

and he agreed, giving in as much as in seeming

Mos. 2.221 ὧν τὸ μὲν περὶ κλήρου διαδοχῆς, τὸ δ᾽ ὅσα τῷ δοκεῖν παρὰ καιρὸν ἐπιτελουμένης ἱερουργίας

and the other of a sacrifice being accomplished at the wrong time as much as seeming

Decal. 1.57 ἀνάγκη τῶν ἡμισφαιρίων ἑκάτερον ἀντιμεθίστασθαι παρ᾽ ἡμέραν ἄνω τε καὶ κάτω γινόμενον ὅσα τῷ δοκεῖν·

each of the hemispheres being in a different position each day (is) necessary, being either above or below as much as seeming

*Spec. 4.80 τῶν δὲ παθῶν οὕτως οὐδὲν ἀργαλέον ὡς ἐπιθυμία τῶν ἀπόντων ὅσα τῷ δοκεῖν ἀγαθῶν, πρὸς ἀλήθειαν οὐκ ὄντων

but of all the passions none (is) painful like desiring good things as much as seeming which lack, though not being with reference to truth

C. Ap. 2.281 οἱ παρὰ τοῖς Ἕλλησι φιλοσοφήσαντες τῷ μὲν δοκεῖν τὰ πάτρια διεφύλαττον ἐν δὲ τοῖς πράγμασι καὶ τῷ φιλοσοφεῖν ἐκείνῳ κατηκολούθησαν ὅμοια

those involved in philosophy from the Greeks on one hand guarded the homelands “so it seems,” but in practices and such philosophy they followed likewise

Greek:

Chaer. 3.7.7 ἑβδόμῳ γὰρ μηνὶ μετὰ τοὺς γάμους υἱὸν ἔτεκε τῷ μὲν δοκεῖν ἐκ Διονυσίου, Χαιρέου δὲ ταῖς ἀληθείαις.

For in the seventh month after the wedding, she gave birth to a son, indeed of Dionysius in seeming, but in truth of Chaereas.

*Chaer. 5.5.8 πάντες γὰρ συνέτρεχον τῷ μὲν δοκεῖν ἀκροαταὶ τῆς δίκης, τὸ δὲ ἀληθὲς Καλλιρρόης θεαταί

For all were gathering together indeed as hearers of the judgment in seeming, but truly observers of Callirhoe

6. Epexegetical/Reference (Adjective/Adverb)

Definition

“Epexegetical” describes the aspect of these infinitives that explains, clarifies, or further defines a modified word, either noun or adjective. “Reference” more naturally describes those infinitives modifying adjectives, in that they provide the realm or manner in which the adjective’s head noun can be described as such. This category has been labeled as infinitives “limiting nouns and/or adjectives,” indicating the infinitive somehow limits the range of meaning for the noun or adjective.

Translation Aids

A number of translations can represent these infinitives accurately, including “of,” “for,” “with reference to,” “about.” In addition, the traditional “to X” translation for infinitives is often appropriate.

Clarification

These infinitives qualify a description, clarify an ambiguous term, or explain how a word should be understood. Typically, the modified word indicates “ability, authority, desire, freedom, hope, need, obligation, or readiness.” Votaw adds words of ability, fitness, and time. The adverbs included in this section are primarily spatial (e.g., “far” or “near” to something). Allen lists the following nouns and one passage where they are found in Polybius: ἀδυναμία (15.34.5); αἰτία (2.38.9); ἀρχή (22.8.8); ἀρχηγός (2.38.9); ἀφορμή (3.69.8); βεβαιωτής (2.40.2); ἐμπόδιον (18.22.4); ἔννοια (15.1.12); ἐξουσία (3.29.7); ἐπιβολή (5.62.7); ἐπιμέλεια (6.35.12); ἔτος (12.16.12); καταρχή (15.33.1); κυρία (6.15.6); λόγος (18.15.15); ὁρμή (15.4.8); παράδειγμα (5.111.7); παράπτωσις (12.25.10); πεῖρα (8.9.6); πρόληψις (16.32.4); πρόνοια (11.2.10); πρόφασις (3.108.5); σημεῖον (23.13.1); συνήθεια (2.20.8); σύνθημα (8.27.3); τέλος (4.57.11); χρόνος (3.112.5). He only found four adjectives, the most common of which is αἴτιος (e.g., 1.43.8; 1.57.7; 9.3.9; 13.4.8; 21.13.10; 23.14.6; 24.11.1; 27.15.1) The other three adjectives are only used once (ἀλλότριος, 21.11.2; ἄπειρος, 39.9.12; κύριος, 29.9.9).

In the regular case system, the dative of reference presents something as true. “An author will use this dative to qualify a statement that would otherwise typically not be true.” The reference aspect of these infinitives can easily be confused with another function of “sphere” or “location.” Wallace advises to focus on the context of the passage and the author’s intent, for the two ideas sometimes carry opposite nuances (cf. ExSyn, 145, for a biblical example; Eph 2:1 and Rom 6:2). “In general, it is safe to say that the dative of reference views the word to which the dative stands related as detached or separated somehow from the dative, while the dative of sphere views the word to which the dative stands related as incorporated within the realm of the dative.” For infinitives, I have attempted to maintain a similar distinction. Epexegetical or reference infinitives are “separate” from the modified word, in that they clarify how the word is to be understood. “Location” infinitives (see below) offer a realm or sphere in which the activity of the main verb occurs.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*Abr. 1.62 νομίζων ἰσότιμον εἶναι τῷ τελειῶσαι τὸ ταχέως τὸ προσταχθὲν ἀνύσαι

considering accomplishing quickly what was commanded to be equal to perfecting (it)

Spec. 1.187 μετάνοιαν ἐν ἴσῳ τῷ μηδὲ ἁμαρτάνειν τετιμηκότος

having honored repentance in the equal (way) to not sinning

This could be labeled as comparative (i.e., “the same way as”). Due to lack of other examples, I have kept the broader category.

Greek:

Diatr. 2.17.40 οὐδ᾽ ἐγγὺς ἐσόμεθα τῷ προκόψαι

We will neither be near to progressing.

Epictetus’ examples all modify a spatial adverb. This could be more narrowly labeled as “Proximity,” but a general epexegetical label seems sufficient.

Diatr. 3.26.6 ἐγγὺς ἥκουσιν τῷ μηδ᾽ ἀποθανεῖν δύνασθαι

They have come near to being unable to die.

Diatr. 4.11.36 αὕτη ἐγγύς ἐστι τῷ μὴ ἀνθρωπικὴ εἶναι

This is near to not being of a human.

7. Indirect Object

Definition

The most common function of the simple dative case is to indicate to or for whom the action of the main verb is done. The dative articular infinitive also operates this way in a few texts.

Translation Aids

Preceding the infinitive with “to” or “for” will make this function more explicit.

Clarification

In order to have an indirect object, a main verb must first take a direct object. For example, a verb of giving must have an object to give before being able to offer the gift to someone else. Therefore, the main verbs in this category must be transitive.

Philo’s texts below (Abr.; Mos.) could be classified elsewhere, perhaps “Advantage.”

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Abr. 1.164 ταῦτα δὲ καὶ τὰ τοιαῦτα ἀνάκειται τῷ φιλοσοφεῖν

Now these and such things are reserved for pursuing knowledge/philosophy

Mos. 1.301 εἰ ὑφ᾽ ἕνα καιρὸν ἄμφω τά τε σώματα καὶ τὰς ψυχὰς ἐπιδεδώκασι, τὰ μὲν ἡδοναῖς, τὰς δὲ τῷ παρανομεῖν καὶ ἀνοσιουργεῖν

if at one time they had given over both bodies and souls, the ones indeed to pleasure, and the others to breaking the law and acting wickedly

A.J. 1.112 προσετίθεσαν δὲ τῷ παρακούειν τῆς τοῦ θεοῦ γνώμης καὶ τὸ κατ᾽ ἐπιβουλὴν ὑπονοεῖν εἰς ἀποικίαν αὐτοὺς παρορμᾶν

and they were adding suspecting (God’s) urging them toward settling colonies according to (His) desire to ignoring the purpose of God

8. Contemporaneous Time

Definition

These temporal infinitives present an action that occurs simultaneously with the main verb. This does not indicate the action still occurs; it merely gives time relative to the verb.

Translation Aids

One can include “while, when, during” before the infinitive.

Clarification

Allen and Hewlett were able to make a distinction between antecedent and contemporaneous time for infinitives with ἅμα based on the tense of the infinitive. With the aorist, the infinitive introduces an event that has just occurred in the immediate past. I have maintained their categorization, as some examples must have occurred in the past. However, one could broaden the temporal boundaries and claim some occurred “during” the time of the main verb. This is especially true when the action or state of the main verb occurs is iterative or even gnomic.

Clear Examples

Greek:

Diatr. 1.7.20 ἐν αὐτῇ τῇ ἐρωτήσει ἢ τῇ ἀποκρίσει ἢ τῷ συλλελογίσθαι ἤ τινι ἄλλῳ τοιούτῳ λαμβάνοντα τὰς μεταπτώσεις

receiving changes in the interrogation itself or in the answer or in being concluded or in some other such (thing)

This could be means or causal, but the context is much more focused on the occasion of receiving the changes. This is most likely temporal.

Leuc. Clit. 8.16.3 τῷ δὲ διώκεσθαι πρὸς ἀπάτην τῶν διωκόντων ἀντ̓ ἐμοῦ σφάττουσι, νομίζοντες πλέον ἐμπολήσειν ἐκ τῆς ἐμῆς πράσεως ἢ τῆς ἐκείνης.

But, in being pursued, they kill (her) instead of me for deceiving the pursuers, thinking to gain more from sale of me than of that (one).

9. Epexegetical/Reference (Verb)

Definition

“Epexegetical” describes the aspect of these infinitives that explains, clarifies, or further defines the state or action of the verb. “Reference” indicates these infinitives qualify a statement that would otherwise not be true. They provide the realm within which the main clause is accurate.

Translation Aids

A number of translations can represent these infinitives accurately, including “with reference to,” “regarding,” or “about.”

Clarification

Epexegetical or reference infinitive more commonly modify substantives or adjectives, but these infinitives further explain either an adjectival nuance of the main verb or qualify the verb to make it accurate.

Originally (and traditionally), the examples with δύναμαι were placed in a separate category of “complementary infinitives.” These are typically defined as infinitives that supplement or complete the main verb to form a single predicate idea. These are distinct from direct objects, in that they are necessary for the verb to convey a complete idea. Boyer follows the traditional route of widening the categories of verbs under this type of infinitive (e.g., will or desire, pleasing, shaming, seeking, beginning, fearing, allowing, finding, owing). However, some of these can take regular direct objects or function intransitively and do not demand an infinitive. As a result, the only verb I had listed with genitive articular complementary infinitives was δύναμαι. One could correctly argue, though, that “being able” focuses on an adjectival idea, and the infinitive should thus be epexegetical to the verb. This finds support in places where δύναμαι is used intransitively without an infinitive (though one could easily be supplied from the context; cf. LSJ, 452). Therefore, the few examples of δύναμαι with a genitive articular infinitive (which happen to occur only in sources of Jewish background) have been listed here, implying the infinitive does not have to be viewed as completing the verb but offers an explanation of the subject’s ability.

Clear Examples

Greek:

P. Oxy. 3555.32-38 καὶ μὴ φέρουσα τὴν περὶ τῆς θεραπαίνης ὀδύνην, τῷ αὐτὴν μὲν κινδυνεύειν τῷ ζῆν

and not bearing distress about the maidservant, because on the one hand of her being in danger with living

10. Cause (Evidence)

Definition

A subcategory of causal infinitives provides the evidence that proves the claim of the main verb. That is, the infinitival clause offers information that demonstrates the truth of the main clause. In the reverse, the main verb contains an inference that can be made from the accuracy of the infinitive.

Translation Aids

One may alter the sentence to something similar to the following: “This is true on the basis of X” or “X proves/demonstrates the validity of this claim.”

Clarification

Although “because of” can still be an appropriate translation in these cases, it is important for the reader not to view the infinitive as providing the responsible event for the occurrence or state of the main verb. In fact, these infinitives often present the opposite of the “reason” for the truth of the main verb. Rather, they sometimes give the state that results from the main verb. An equivalent situation is found in conditional clauses. Sometimes the protasis provides evidence of the apodosis, not an action that causes it. Wallace provides the following example: “If she has a ring on her left hand, then she’s married.” The protasis is not the cause of the apodosis but provides evidence of the latter’s validity.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*C. Ap. 1.69 ὅτι μὴ παλαιόν ἐστιν αὐτῶν τὸ γένος τῷ μηθὲν ἐν ταῖς ἡμετέραις ἀναγραφαῖς περὶ αὐτῶν εἰρῆσθαι

because their nation is not ancient because nothing has been said about them in our records

Possible Examples (and why they are more likely one or the other). Don’t really need Possible examples from each category, but if there are no clear examples, I could fit a structure here as debated in one or two categories.

Jewish:

*Mos. 2.87 σχεδὸν δὲ καὶ αἱ αὐλαῖαι καταπετάσματ᾽ εἰσίν, οὐ μόνον τῷ τὸν ὄροφον καὶ τοὺς τοίχους καλύπτειν, ἀλλὰ καὶ τῷ συνυφάνθαι γένεσι τοῖς αὐτοῖς

And the curtains are nearly also the veils, not only because of covering the roof and the walls, but also because of being woven with the same kinds (of things).

The line between evidence and reason is not well defined here.

A.J. 8.108 τῷ μὲν γὰρ πάντ᾽ ἐφορᾶν καὶ πάντ᾽ ἀκούειν οὐδὲ νῦν ὅπου σοι θέμις οἰκῶν ἀπολείπεις τοῦ πᾶσιν ἔγγιστα εἶναι μᾶλλον δ᾽ ἑκάστῳ καὶ βουλευομένῳ καὶ διὰ νυκτὸς καὶ ἡμέρας συμπάρει

For seeing all things and hearing all things, you do not abandon, though dwelling somewhere is right for you, being near to all, but rather you are present during night and day with everyone taking counsel.

Both the infinitival clauses and main clause are positive, so it is not concessive. It could give one means by which God is present. This could be simply contemporaneous time, but this may present an evidence that God is near.

11. Spatial/Location

Definition

These infinitives provide the sphere or realm within which the main verb exists. As Hewlett states, the verbal nature of infinitives requires the “location” to be metaphorical.

Translation Aids

Some spatial prepositions are appropriate to indicate this function: “in, into, at.”

Clarification

I have made this function distinct from a few others as follows. First, this category contains the realm within which an action occurs, not the goal to which the main verb is intended (e.g., purpose, directional purpose). These others indicate the intended target, while “Location” implies the realm has been reached. Second, this is distinct from “Reference” as Wallace explains in his discussion of the dative case. “In general, it is safe to say that the dative of reference views the word to which the dative stands related as detached or separated somehow from the dative, while the dative of sphere views the word to which the dative stands related as incorporated within the realm of the dative.”

Clear Examples

Jewish:

A.J. 6.368 Σαοῦλος δὲ ὁ τῶν Ἰσραηλιτῶν βασιλεὺς καὶ οἱ παῖδες αὐτοῦ γενναίως ἀγωνιζόμενοι καὶ πάσῃ προθυμίᾳ χρώμενοι ὡς ἐν μόνῳ τῷ καλῶς ἀποθανεῖν καὶ παραβόλως διακινδυνεῦσαι τοῖς πολεμίοις τῆς ὅλης αὐτοῖς δόξης ἀποκειμένης

but Saul, the king of Israel, and his sons, having fought courageously, and using all zeal, as all their glory lay in only dying well and desperately running risks against the enemies

The infinitive fits no other semantic category than a metaphorical place where glory is reserved.

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Dative Articular Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

τῷ + Infinitive

1. Cause (Reason)

2. Direct Object

3. Means

4. Apposition

5. Appearance/ “So It Seems”

6. Epexegetical/Reference (Adjective/Adverb)

7. Indirect Object

8. Contemporaneous Time

9. Epexegetical/Reference (Verb)

10. Cause (Evidence)

11. Spatial/Location

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