Something to Chew On: Improper Prepositions with Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

Articular Infinitives with Improper Prepositions

Genitive Object

ἄνευ τοῦ + 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.; 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. Subtraction/Instrumental Separation

Definition

The infinitive sometimes refers to an action’s being accomplished without the typical preceding processes. In essence, this category is the opposite of “Means,” in that the accompanying circumstance that contributes to the performance of the main action is lacking in this instance.

improper preposition with the genitive that can mean “without” or “apart from”

Translation Aids

Some words and phrases to insert before these infinitives would be “apart from, without.”

Clarification

The term “Subtraction” is used in these cases to indicate some aspect is missing from how an action typically takes place. This could refer to the means, cause, or even result of the main verb. For these infinitives, the instrumental action which contributes to accomplishing the main verb is lacking. This is similar to the spatial separation, but these infinitives more contrast with those of means. They indicate the action of the main verb was performed “without” doing something else. In addition, one should maintain the distinction between means and manner. The latter describes the attitude or emotion which accompanies the main action.

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Amos 3:5 εἰ σχασθήσεται παγὶς ἐπὶ τῆς γῆς ἄνευ τοῦ συλλαβεῖν τι;

Will a trap be relaxed (i.e., spring up) on the earth without seizing something?

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

A.J. 7.72 οὐδὲν γὰρ ἄνευ προφητείας καὶ τοῦ κελεῦσαι τὸν θεὸν καὶ περὶ τῶν ἐσομένων λαβεῖν ἐγγυητὴν ἐκεῖνον ἑαυτῷ ποιεῖν ἐπέτρεπεν

for he permitted himself to do nothing without prophecy and (without) God commanding and (without) taking that one as a guarantee concerning future things

Prophecy, God’s command, and taking God as a guarantee are not means of doing something, but they are viewed as essential to the process. They are not instruments, but the sense of the infinitives is separation/apart from/without. They are not strictly spatially separated, though, leaving the meaning of instrumental separation/subtraction.

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 Sources:

Serv. (10) 17 τὸ δὲ ἐπιχειρεῖν ἄνευ τοῦ ἐπίστασθαι πάντων βλαβερώτατον

but attempting without/apart from knowing (is) most dangerous of all

Serv. (10) 18 Οὔκουν καὶ ὁ κυσὶ πειρώμενος χρῆσθαι ἄνευ τοῦ ἐπίστασθαι ζημιώσεται ἀπ’ αὐτῶν;

Therefore, also the one trying to use dogs without knowing will be harmed from them, will he not?

P. Oxy. 474.40 δεύτερον τοῦτο προσαγορεύω ἄνευ τοῦ ἐπιτραπῆναι μὴ ἐφάπτεσθαι τοῦ κυριακοῦ χρήματος

now I designate this second (order) not to touch the royal wealth without being permitted

A number of categories fit this text, but they all have the same idea. No one is to take the royal possessions for themselves unless they are permitted to do so. This has an exception sense, but only because the sentence is negative. In a positive statement, the construction would imply separation. It is not strictly spatial, so instrumental works here.

Cf. Dei cogn. (12) 43 [2x].

ἄχρι τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Indefinite Time

Definition

The infinitive states an action will occur until a certain point in the future. This future event is relative to the main verb, not the timeframe of the reader. There is no indication of when the action began unless context states it explicitly.

ἄχρι is sometimes used as an adverb and other times as a conjunction, but with the preposition it has the connotation of extent or degree, whether of time, space, or measure (LSJ, 297–98; BDAG, 160–61).

Translation Aids

Inserting “until” before the infinitive makes this nuance explicit.

Clarification

This category is similar to “Duration of Time,” but the latter views the entire timeframe or period as a whole. In addition, some overlap may exist between “Indefinite Time” and “Extent” as some of the following examples demonstrate. One must ask whether the author is emphasizing the temporal aspect or the degree to which the action of the main verb occurs.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*T. Naph. 4:5 καὶ διασπείρει αὐτοὺς κύριος ἐπὶ προσώπου πάσης τῆς γῆς, ἄχρι τοῦ ἐλθεῖν τὸ σπλάγχνον κυρίου

And the Lord scatters them over the face of all the earth, until the compassion of the Lord comes

*Abr. 1.253 ἄγεται τὴν ὑπ᾽ αὐτῆς δοκιμασθεῖσαν ἄχρι τοῦ παιδοποιήσασθαι, ὡς δ᾽ οἱ σαφέστατα διηγούμενοί φασιν, ἄχρι τοῦ μόνον ἐγκύμονα γενέσθαι·

He takes for himself the one being approved by her until the bearing of a child, but as those who describe accuracies say, only until becoming pregnant;

In these cases, the temporal aspect is in view, though Philo’s first example could be taken as measure or extent (He led her to the point of bearing a child with her). However, the second infinitive argues against this, as does the surrounding context of the passage.

2. Degree/Extent

Definition

The infinitival form offers the extent to which the action of the main verb was accomplished. It answers, “To what point?” In this way it is similar to result, but the emphasis is on the progression of the action.

Translation Aids

One can insert either “even to” or “to the point of” to indicate the force of the construction.

Clarification

The infinitives do not emphasize the indefinite amount of time which the main verb occurs but how far the action progresses. In this category I have also included infinitives of geographical limitation (e.g., ???). Thus, the following examples provide some sort of limit to the main action. As the reader will notice, the main verbs are ???.

Clear Examples

Greek:

[Cor.] (37) 24 οὗ τὴν φωνὴν ἐπησκήκει ἄχρι τοῦ καὶ λέγειν δυνατὸς εἶναι

whose voice he cultivated until even being able to speak

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.; 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. .

δίχα τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Subtraction/Instrumental Separation

Definition

δίχα as a preposition takes the genitive case and has a wide range of meaning, including separation, exception, and addition (LSJ, 438–39; BDAG, 252). With the infinitive, though, only three cases were found (all in Philo), which clearly contain an instrumental sense of separation.

The negation is built into the preposition δίχα, making meanings of exception and concession unlikely.

Translation Aids

Some words and phrases to insert before these infinitives would be “apart from, without.”

Clarification

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Abr. 1.16 ὁ δ᾽ ἄνευ παραινέσεως δίχα τοῦ κελευσθῆναι γενόμενος εὔελπις ἀγράφῳ μὲν νόμῳ δὲ πάλιν αὐτομαθεῖ τὴν ἀρετὴν ταύτην πεπαίδευται

but the one who became hopeful without recommendation without being commanded has been instructed this virtue by both an unwritten and again self-taught law

*Abr. 1.53 οὔτε φύσις ἐπὶ πέρας ἐστὶν ἐλθεῖν ἱκανὴ δίχα τοῦ μαθεῖν καὶ ἀσκῆσαι

neither is nature sufficient to come to the end without learning and practicing

Greek:

1 Tars. (33) 27 οὐδὲ σημεῖον ὄψεται πόλεως οὐδέν, δίχα τοῦ πολὺν κέραμον εἶναι συντετριμμένον ἐν τῷ τόπῳ

neither will you see any sign of a city, apart from/except much pottery having been crushed in the place

ἕνεκα(εν) τοῦ + Infinitive

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.

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Amos 1:6 ἐπὶ ταῖς τρισὶν ἀσεβείαις Γάζης καὶ ἐπὶ ταῖς τέσσαρσιν οὐκ ἀποστραφήσομαι αὐτούς ἕνεκεν τοῦ αἰχμαλωτεῦσαι αὐτοὺς αἰχμαλωσίαν τοῦ Σαλωμων τοῦ συγκλεῖσαι εἰς τὴν Ιδουμαίαν.

For three iniquities of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away from them; because of them capturing the captivity of Salomon to close (them) into Idumea.

Amos 2:4 ἐπὶ ταῖς τρισὶν ἀσεβείαις υἱῶν Ιουδα καὶ ἐπὶ ταῖς τέσσαρσιν οὐκ ἀποστραφήσομαι αὐτόν ἕνεκα τοῦ ἀπώσασθαι αὐτοὺς τὸν νόμον κυρίου

For three iniquities of the sons of Judah, and for four, I will not turn away from him; because of them rejecting the law of the Lord.

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

Ios. 1.59 φρονεῖ δὲ καὶ πράττει τἀναντία, τὰ νόθα πρὸ τῶν γνησίων ἀποδεχόμενος, ἕνεκα τοῦ δόξης μὲν ἡττᾶσθαι, τὸ δ᾽ ἀληθείᾳ καλὸν μὴ ἐπιτηδεύειν.

but (the multitude) thinks and does the opposite, accepting the counterfeit over the legitimate, because of yielding to opinion, and not pursuing the good in truth

Mos. 2.169 τῶν μὲν οὖν ἄλλων οἱ μὲν ἕνεκα τοῦ τὸν Αἰγυπτιακὸν ἐζηλωκέναι τῦφον ἀφηνιάζοντες οὐ προσεῖχον τοῖς λεγομένοις

Then indeed some of the others, resisting because of striving after the Egyptian arrogance, did not heed what was spoken.

Spec. 1.122 οὗ χάριν καὶ τὰ γέρα τῶν ἱερέων οὐ δοτέον ὥσπερ ἄλλοις οὐδὲ τοῖς παροίκοις ἕνεκα τοῦ γειτνιᾶν ἐφαψομένοις ὧν οὐ θέμις·

On account of which, the honors of priests (is) not given to strangers holding what is not custom, because of (them) being near.

Spec. 2.108 χῆραι καὶ ὀρφανοὶ παῖδες καὶ ὅσοι ἄλλοι τῶν ἠμελημένων καὶ ἀφανῶν ἕνεκα τοῦ μὴ περιουσιάζειν τότε περιουσιάσουσι ταῖς τοῦ θεοῦ δωρεαῖς ἐξαπιναίως πεπλουτηκότες

Widows and orphaned children and as many of those being neglected and invisible because of not abounding, then they will abound, having suddenly become rich with the gifts of God.

A.J. 1.59 ἐκέλευε … ἀλλ᾽ ἕνεκα τοῦ μηδὲν αὐτῷ ἐκ θηρίων γενέσθαι δεινὸν διὰ πάσης ἀδεῶς χωρεῖν γῆς

He commanded … but to advance through all the earth fearlessly because of no fear of wild animals being to him.

This is also close to Causal (evidence) because of the cognates.

Greek:

2 Serv. lib. (15) 19 καίτοι ἕνεκα τοῦ πείθεσθαι καὶ πληγὰς λαμβάνειν, καὶ τῶν γραμματιστῶν οἰκέτας φήσεις τοὺς παρ’ αὐτοῖς μανθάνοντας καὶ τοὺς παιδοτρίβας δεσπότας εἶναι τῶν μαθητῶν ἢ τοὺς ἄλλο τι διδάσκοντας

and yet, on account of of obeying and receiving wounds, you say the servants of the schoolmasters to be the ones learning from them

P. Oxy. 513.24–28 τὰ σύμβολα … ἀνέδωκα σ[οὶ τῷ Σ]ερήνῳ ἕνεκα τοῦ ὑ[π]ερβεβλῆσθαι τὴν προκειμένην οἰκίαν ὑπὸ σοῦ [το]ῦ Σερήνου καὶ ἀναβεβιβάσθαι εἰς δραχμὰς χειλίας [ὀκ]τακοσίας καὶ παραδεδόσθαι σοι ταύτην

the receipts … I have delivered to you, Serenus, because (the bid) for the aforesaid house has been exceeded by you, Serenus, and has been raised to 1800 drachmae, and this (property) has been handed over to you

P. Oxy. 1644.14–21 χρηματίσθ[έντος] κατὰ συγγραφήν … ἕνεκα τοῦ τὸν Μοσχίωνα διά τινας αἰτίας τὸν καινοχωρισμόν … πεποιῆσθαι

(loan) which was negotiated according to a contract … because Moschion for various reasons has made the renewal

2. Purpose

Definition

Infinitives commonly provide the purpose behind the main verb, and Winer comments that the infinitive of purpose is closely related to the complementary infinitive by the element of design (i.e., intention). Boyer likewise comments, “The most natural adverbial use of the infinitive, either articular or anarthrous, is to express the end or direction of an action, whether intentional (purpose) or consequential (result).” For this category, the infinitive not only completes the action but also offers the goal behind that action.

Translation Aids

Some key phrases that introduce purpose clauses are “in order that/to,” “so that,” or “on behalf of.”

Clarification

Votaw makes a distinction between “distinct and specific” and “modified and general” purpose clauses. I have chosen not to maintain this division for simplicity’s sake. In addition, some of this examples in their respective categories should be labeled differently (e.g., epexegetical). Similarly, Allen claims purpose infinitives can occur after adjectives, adverbs, nouns, verbs, or in free relation to the whole sentence. I would label these as epexegetical, leaving “Purpose” to describe infinitives which function on the clausal level.

As Wallace writes, “Technically, there are really two subgroups that share the idea of movement toward an end … Thus, one kind involves intention, the other mere direction (or sometimes even tendency).” In this project I have made respective categories to match this distinction. This category involves the former, in that the infinitive provides the goal or intended result of the main verb. “Directional Purpose” is another function which describes the direction or spatial goal toward which the subject strives.

The difference between purpose and result is not always clear, though the definitions intend on making them quite distinct. The difficulty comes in the incomplete knowledge of the reader and the ambiguity of the author. The goals of purpose infinitives are often met, which would meet the requirements of “Result.” However, the reader is left to discern the purpose of the author, whether he emphasizes the intent of the action or not. The following patterns were noticed throughout the literature to make this distinction more probable.

The reader should notice that some conjunctions with a purpose idea can be prepositive (e.g., χάριν and ἕνεκα[εν]).

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Exod 20:20 θαρσεῖτε ἕνεκεν γὰρ τοῦ πειράσαι ὑμᾶς παρεγενήθη ὁ θεὸς πρὸς ὑμᾶς

Have courage, for God has come near to you to test you.

*Amos 6:10 καὶ ἐρεῖ τοῖς προεστηκόσι τῆς οἰκίας εἰ ἔτι ὑπάρχει παρὰ σοί καὶ ἐρεῖ οὐκέτι καὶ ἐρεῖ σίγα ἕνεκα τοῦ μὴ ὀνομάσαι τὸ ὄνομα κυρίου

And he will say to those over the house, Does (someone) still exist with you? And he will say, No longer. And he will say, Keep silent in order not to name the name of the Lord.

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

Abr. 1.142 οὐχ ἕνεκα τοῦ δηλῶσαί με τὰς μεγαλουργηθείσας συμφορὰς καινὰς ταῦτα διεξῆλθον

I did not recount all these for me to reveal the new great misfortunes being done.

Spec. 2.50 καὶ βιαζόμενος τὸν ἄρρενα τῆς φύσεως χαρακτῆρα παρακόπτειν καὶ μεταβάλλειν εἰς γυναικόμορφον ἰδέαν ἕνεκα τοῦ μεμιασμένῳ καὶ ἐπαράτῳ πάθει χαρίσασθαι

and forcing to counterfeit the courageous character of (his) nature and to change (it) into a womanlike form, for gratifying the polluted and accursed passion

Spec. 3.113 φιλήδονοι μὲν γάρ, εἰ μὴ σπορᾶς ἕνεκα τέκνων καὶ τοῦ διαιωνίσαι τὸ γένος συνέρχονται γυναιξὶν

For indeed lovers of pleasure come together with women, neither for procreation of children nor perpetuating the race.

Spec. 4.37 ἐὰν δὲ λάβῃ τις μὴ ὡς παρακαταθήκην ἀλλ᾽ ἕνεκα τοῦ χρήσασθαι δεόμενος σκεῦος ἢ ζῷον

And if someone receives (something) not as a deposit but (as) asking a vessel or animal for using (it)

A.J. 1.32 συνδησάμενος αὐτὰ κοινωνίᾳ καὶ μίξει γονῆς ἕνεκα καὶ τοῦ συναύξεσθαι καὶ πλεονάζειν αὐτῶν τὴν φύσιν.

sorting them in commonality and mixing of kind, for their nature being increased and abounding

A.J. 7.37 ἐκ τούτων ἄν τις κατανοήσειεν ὅσα καὶ πηλίκα τολμῶσιν ἄνθρωποι πλεονεξίας ἕνεκα καὶ ἀρχῆς καὶ τοῦ μηδενὶ τούτων παραχωρῆσαι

From these, someone may perceive as many and great (things) men dare for the sake of gain and rule and conceding these (things) to no one.

Greek:

Polyb. 3.4.10 οὔτε γὰρ πολεμεῖ τοῖς πέλας οὐδεὶς νοῦν ἔχων ἕνεκεν αὐτοῦ τοῦ καταγωνίσασθαι τοὺς ἀντιταττομένους

For no one having a mind wars with (those) nearby on account of prevailing over the opposing (ones)

Diod. 3.34.5 ἀλλὰ καὶ τοὐναντίον ἑκουσίως προΐενται τὸ ζῆν ἕνεκα τοῦ μὴ βιασθῆναι διαίτης ἑτέρας καὶ βίου πειραθῆναι.

But even on the contrary, they voluntarily give up living on account of not being forced to be tried of another manner of life and livelihood.

Diod. 4.41.3 Ἄργου καὶ συμπλεύσαντος ἕνεκα τοῦ θεραπεύειν ἀεὶ τὰ πονοῦντα μέρη τῆς νεώς

and of Argus, sailing along on account of treating the ever laboring parts of the ship

Serv. (10) 1 ὥσπερ οἱ ἰατροὶ ἀνακίρινουσι τοὺς ἀσθενοῦντας ὅ τι μέλλουσι ποιεῖν ἕνεκα τοῦ συμβουλεῦσαι

just as the doctors ask those who are sick what they are about to do for the sake of giving counsel

Diatr. 3.24.50 ὅτι ἀνὴρ καλὸς καὶ ἀγαθὸς οὐδὲν ποιεῖ τοῦ δόξαι ἕνεκα, ἀλλὰ τοῦ πεπρᾶχθαι καλῶς

that a good and useful man does nothing on account of seeming good, but (on account of) having performed well

ἔξω τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Exception/Addition

Definition

Technically, this comes from the adverb ἔξω which carries the meaning of “outside”, typically indicating a spatial sense. In this way, the preposition in this case has the sense of “outside the boundaries of X; beyond.” With the infinitive and a negative main clause, this has the sense of exception or addition.

The infinitive provides the case(s) where the action of the main verb is either falsified or unable to occur.

This preposition ἔξω could have either sense depending on the context of the sentence. LSJ (600) lists “except” as the meaning of the preposition with genitive (e.g., Herodotus 7.29), but there is also a listing of the meaning “besides” (i.e., Addition; cf. Thucydides 5.97; cf. BDAG, 354, merely lists examples of spatial phrases).

The infinitival clause provides a primary, basic action to which the main clause adds a secondary or accompanying action.

Translation Aids

The reader should insert “except for” to make sense of these forms.

The two translation helps to insert for this function are “in addition to” or “besides.”

Clarification

The greatest distinction to make is between Exception and Addition infinitives. The two pragmatic categories would appear to be polar opposites to one another, but this is only the case when the independent clause is positive. When the main clause is negated, the two functions mean the same thing.

a. “They did not accomplish anything except for resisting.”

b. “They did not accomplish anything in addition to resisting.”

In both cases, the subjects were only able to resist.

c. “They accomplished everything except for conquering.”

They were close to meeting their goal, but they did not quite make it.

d. “They accomplished everything in addition to conquering.”

Conquering was easy, but they also did other things.

For this project, I have labeled all negative clauses as exception, reserving the term “Addition” for positive statements that are distinct from exceptions.

The Philo infinitive found in my study has the sense of exception/addition/beyond because it is a negative statement.

The Dio Chrysostom infinitive is either addition or location, giving a further description of how one considers himself.

Clear Example

Jewish:

Exsecr. 1.140 ἔξω δὲ τοῦ σφαδᾴζειν οὐδὲν ἐργάσασθαι δυνήσονται

but they will be able to accomplish nothing beyond resisting

Greek:

Isthm. (9) 21 ὁπότε ἴδοι τινὰ μάτην ἐπαιρόμενον καὶ διὰ πρᾶγμα οὐδενὸς ἄξιον ἔξω τοῦ

φρονεῖν

whenever he knew someone being proud in vain and beyond/ outside of thinking because of a deed worthy of nothing

ἕως τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Indefinite Time

Definition

Translation Aids

Inserting “until” before the infinitive makes this nuance explicit.

Clarification

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Gen 8:7 καὶ ἀπέστειλεν τὸν κόρακα τοῦ ἰδεῖν εἰ κεκόπακεν τὸ ὕδωρ καὶ ἐξελθὼν οὐχ ὑπέστρεψεν ἕως τοῦ ξηρανθῆναι τὸ ὕδωρ ἀπὸ τῆς γῆς

And he sent forth a raven to see if the water had ceased, and departing it did not return until the water had been drained from the land.

Gen 27:45 καὶ οἴκησον μετ’ αὐτοῦ ἡμέρας τινὰς ἕως τοῦ ἀποστρέψαι τὸν θυμόν

And dwell with him certain days until the wrath turns away.

Gen 42:16 καὶ λάβετε τὸν ἀδελφὸν ὑμῶν ὑμεῖς δὲ ἀπάχθητε ἕως τοῦ φανερὰ γενέσθαι τὰ ῥήματα ὑμῶν

and you must take your brother, but you must be led away until your words becoming manifest

Exod 10:26 ἡμεῖς δὲ οὐκ οἴδαμεν τί λατρεύσωμεν κυρίῳ τῷ θεῷ ἡμῶν ἕως τοῦ ἐλθεῖν ἡμᾶς ἐκεῖ

But we do not know how we may serve the Lord our God until us coming there.

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

1 Macc 3:33 καὶ τρέφειν Ἀντίοχον τὸν υἱὸν αὐτοῦ ἕως τοῦ ἐπιστρέψαι αὐτόν

And to rear his son Antiochus until him returning.

1 Macc 14:41 καὶ ὅτι οἱ Ιουδαῖοι καὶ οἱ ἱερεῖς εὐδόκησαν τοῦ εἶναι αὐτῶν Σιμωνα ἡγούμενον καὶ ἀρχιερέα εἰς τὸν αἰῶνα ἕως τοῦ ἀναστῆναι προφήτην πιστὸν

And that the Jews and priests were pleased by Simon being their governor and high priest for ever, until a faithful prophet rising.

*T. Jud. 22:2 ἐν ἀλλοφύλοις συντελεσθήσεται ἡ βασιλεία μου, ἕως τοῦ ἐλθεῖν τὸ σωτήριον Ἰσραήλ

My kingdom will be destroyed by foreign tribes, until the salvation of Israel comes.

Greek:

Polyb. 1.69.10 περιμείναντες ἕως τοῦ γνῶναι πότερον ἀντερῶν ἢ συνηγορήσων πάρεστι τοῖς περὶ τὸν Σπένδιον, παραχρῆμα βάλλοντες τοῖς λίθοις ἀπέκτεινον.

(Neither) waiting until knowing whether he is speaking against or advocating the (things) about Spendius, but immediately they killed by casting stones.

*Polyb. 3.24.11 ἐν Σαρδόνι καὶ Λιβύῃ μηδεὶς Ῥωμαίων μήτ᾽ ἐμπορευέσθω μήτε πόλιν κτιζέτω, εἰ μὴ ἕως τοῦ ἐφόδια λαβεῖν ἢ πλοῖον ἐπισκευάσαι.

In Sardinia and Libya none of the Romans must travel nor found a city, unless until taking supplies or repairing a ship.

2. Degree/Extent

Definition

Translation Aids

One can insert either “even to” or “to the point of” to indicate the force of the construction.

Clarification

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

*Num 21:35 καὶ ἐπάταξεν αὐτὸν καὶ τοὺς υἱοὺς αὐτοῦ καὶ πάντα τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ ἕως τοῦ μὴ καταλιπεῖν αὐτοῦ ζωγρίαν.

And he smote him and his sons and all his people until leaving none of his alive.

This does not speak of a temporal aspect, but the extent of such a slaughter.

Josh 10:33 καὶ ἐπάταξεν αὐτὸν Ἰησοῦς ἐν στόματι ξίφους καὶ τὸν λαὸν αὐτοῦ ἕως τοῦ μὴ καταλειφθῆναι αὐτῶν σεσῳσμένον καὶ διαπεφευγότα

And Iesous smote him and his people with the edge of the sword until (none) having been saved nor escaping of them were left.

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

*1 Macc 7:45 καὶ κατεδίωκον αὐτοὺς ὁδὸν ἡμέρας μιᾶς ἀπὸ Αδασα ἕως τοῦ ἐλθεῖν εἰς Γαζηρα

And they pursued them a journey of one day from Adasa until coming to Gazera.

This is geographical boundary or extent.

Greek:

Polyb. 5.10.3 οὐκ ἐπιμετρῶν τῷ θυμῷ τοῖς πραττομένοις, ἀλλὰ μέχρι τούτου πολεμῶν καὶ φιλονεικῶν, ἕως τοῦ λαβεῖν ἀφορμὰς πρὸς ἀπόδειξιν τῆς αὑτοῦ πρᾳότητος καὶ καλοκἀγαθίας.

but making war and being contentious until this, until taking opportunities for demonstration of his gentleness and goodness

This could be indefinite time, but it seems to emphasize the extent of Philip’s war efforts. He made war only to the point of finding opportunity to display these 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.

LXX (translated):

Mal 3:10 ἐὰν μὴ ἀνοίξω ὑμῖν τοὺς καταρράκτας τοῦ οὐρανοῦ καὶ ἐκχεῶ ὑμῖν τὴν εὐλογίαν μου ἕως τοῦ ἱκανωθῆναι

if I will not open to you the doors of heaven, and I will pour out my blessing for you until being satisfied

This could be indefinite time, but it does seem the purpose of such a blessing is to satisfy them. Thus, this could be narrowed down to the degree of pouring.

3. Purpose

Definition

Translation Aids

Some key phrases that introduce purpose clauses are “in order that/to,” “so that,” or “on behalf of.”

Clarification

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. 5.109.1–2 πρὸς τὰς ἐπιβολὰς αὐτοῦ χρεία πλοίων ἐστὶ καὶ τῆς κατὰ θάλατταν ὑπηρεσίας, καὶ ταύτης οὐχ ὡς πρὸς ναυμαχίαν ... ἀλλὰ μᾶλλον ἕως τοῦ παρακομίζειν στρατιώτας καὶ θᾶττον διαίρειν οὗ πρόθοιτο καὶ παραδόξως ἐπιφαίνεσθαι τοῖς πολεμίοις:

Need of ships and servants on the sea exists for his demands, and this not as for battle, but rather for transporting soldiers and rising where he set out quicker and appearing to enemies suddenly

It is unclear whether the infinitives modify the equative verb or the subject χρεία, but the purpose of meeting these needs is composed of the infinitives. This could be listed as “Extent,” but it is parallel with προς phrase. If modifying χρεια, these could be reference. LSJ (751–52; cf. BDAG, 422–24) has no intent or purpose nuance for the preposition. It could thus be merely extent: “as far as.”

μεχρὶ(ς) τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Indefinite Time

Definition

Translation Aids

Inserting “until” before the infinitive makes this nuance explicit.

Clarification

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Ps 104:18–19 ἐταπείνωσαν ἐν πέδαις τοὺς πόδας αὐτοῦ σίδηρον διῆλθεν ἡ ψυχὴ αὐτοῦ 19μέχρι τοῦ ἐλθεῖν τὸν λόγον αὐτοῦ.

They humbled his feet with fetters; his soul passed through iron, 19until his word coming (i.e., occurring).

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

Tob (S) 2:4 καὶ ἀναιροῦμαι αὐτὸν ἐκ τῆς πλατείας καὶ εἰς ἓν τῶν οἰκιδίων ἔθηκα μέχρι τοῦ τὸν ἥλιον δύειν

And I took him away from the square, and I placed (him) in one of the rooms until the sun going down.

1 Macc 4:46 καὶ ἀπέθεντο τοὺς λίθους ἐν τῷ ὄρει τοῦ οἴκου ἐν τόπῳ ἐπιτηδείῳ μέχρι τοῦ παραγενηθῆναι προφήτην τοῦ ἀποκριθῆναι περὶ αὐτῶν

And they put the stones away in the mountain of the house in a convenient place, until a prophet arriving to answer concerning them.

1 En. 21:6 οὗτοι ἐστιν τῶν ἀστέρων τοῦ οὐρανοῦ οἱ παραβάντες τὴν ἐπιταγὴν τοῦ κυρίου, καὶ ἐδέθησαν ὧδε μέχρι τοῦ πληρῶσαι μύρια ἔτη, τὸν χρόνον τῶν ἁμαρτημάτων αὐτῶν.

These who transgressed the command of the Lord are of the stars of heaven, and they are bound here until fulfilling ten thousand years, the time of their sins.

Mos. 1.218 καὶ διέμενον ἀνώφοιτοι μέχρι τοῦ τὴν νίκην Ἑβραίους ἀνανταγώνιστον ἄρασθαι

and they were continuing (as) upward until the Hebrews taking away the incomparable victory

Spec. 2.54 καὶ τὸν ψυχικὸν γέλωτα ἀρνεῖται μέχρι τοῦ παρηγορηθῆναι

and (it) denies the laughter of the soul until being comforted

Greek:

Polyb. 3.92.5 Φάβιος δὲ μέχρι μὲν τοῦ συνάψαι τοῖς τόποις ἔσπευδε καὶ συνυπεκρίνετο τοῖς προθύμως καὶ φιλοκινδύνως διακειμένοις

And Fabius was hastening until reaching the places, and he was pretending with those disposed eagerly and for adventure.

P. Oxy. 275.22–24 οὐκ ἐξόντος τῷ Τρύφωνι ἀποσπᾶν τὸν παῖδα ἀπὸ τοῦ Πτολεμαίου μέχρι τοῦ τὸν χρόνον πληρωθῆναι

taking away (his) son from Ptolemaeus not being proper to Tryphon until the time is fulfilled

P. Oxy. 1471.22–25 εἶναι αύτὴ[ν ἀγωγί]μην καὶ συνέχεσθαι μέχρι τοῦ ἐκτεῖσαι τῷ Μάρκῳ Λογγείνῳ Καστρησίῳ παραχρῆμα τὸ [μ]ὲν δάνειον

she (may) be liable to arrest and held until she pays the loan in full to Mark Longinus Castresius immediately indeed

P. Oxy. 5168.16 προσρεί[πτειν τῷ Σαραπ]ί[ω]ν[ι τ]ὸν παῖδα μέχρι τοῦ τοὺς δεκαοκτὼ μῆ[νας πληρωθῆνα]ι

handing the child to Sarapion until the eighteen months being fulfilled

2. Degree/Extent

Definition

Translation Aids

One can insert either “even to” or “to the point of” to indicate the force of the construction.

Clarification

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Tob (S) 2:10 ἐξετυφλοῦντο οἱ ὀφθαλμοί μου τοῖς λευκώμασιν μέχρι τοῦ ἀποτυφλωθῆναι καὶ ἤμην ἀδύνατος τοῖς ὀφθαλμοῖς ἔτη τέσσαρα

My eyes were blinded with the whiteness until being blinded, and I was unable with my eyes four years.

The point is the progression to complete blindness.

Mos. 2.264 καὶ ταῖς μὲν προτέραις εἴ τι κατελείφθη, λειβόμενον ἐτήκετο μέχρι τοῦ παντελῶς εἰς νοτίδα μεταβαλὸν ἀναλωθῆναι

And indeed on the previous (days), if any were left, after melting it dissolved until being consumed completely, changing to moisture.

The adverb supports this classification.

A.J. 5.317 θαυμάζειν δὲ ἄξιον τῆς ἀρετῆς καὶ τῆς ἰσχύος καὶ τοῦ περὶ τὴν τελευτὴν μεγαλόφρονος τὸν ἄνδρα καὶ τῆς ὀργῆς τῆς μέχρι τοῦ τελευτᾶν πρὸς τοὺς πολεμίους

And marveling at the man of virtue and strength and generous concerning death and wrath which (was) until dying with enemies (is) worthy.

A.J. 7.346 ταῦθ᾽ ὁρῶν ὁ πατὴρ οὐκ ἐπέπληττεν οὐδ᾽ ἐπεῖχεν αὐτὸν τῆς προαιρέσεως οὐδὲ μέχρι τοῦ πυθέσθαι διὰ τί ταῦτα πράττει προήχθη.

When the father saw these (things), he did not rebuke him nor hinder him from (his) purpose, neither was he advancing until inquiring why he did these (things).

C. Ap. 2.243 εἶτ᾽ αὐτοῖς ἐγγιγνομένας πρὸς ἀλλήλους στάσεις καὶ περὶ ἀνθρώπων φιλονεικίας μέχρι τοῦ μὴ μόνον ἀλλήλοις τὰς χεῖρας προσφέρειν ἀλλὰ καὶ ὑπ᾽ ἀνθρώπων τραυματιζομένους ὀδύρεσθαι καὶ κακοπαθεῖν

Then among them divisions coming against one another and quarrels concerning men until (i.e., to the point of) not only laying hands on one another but also lamenting and suffering harm because of being wounded by men

Greek:

Dei cogn. (12) 37 εἰ μέχρι τοῦ ᾄδειν αὐτοῖς τὸ σοφὸν ἦν

if wisdom was to them (only) until singing

Context adds other things that the wisdom or skill of men led them to do.

[Cor.] (37) 10 οὐδεὶς εἰς ταύτην τὴν ἡμέραν ἐξίκετο τῆς τέχνης μέχρι τοῦ καὶ δρασμὸν ἐμποιεῖν τῷ χαλκῷ

No one to this day arrived in this art until even producing flight for bronze

Diatr. 1.1.2 ἡ γραμματικὴ μέχρι τίνος κέκτηται τὸ θεωρητικόν; μέχρι τοῦ διαγνῶναι τὰ γράμματα. ἡ μουσική; μέχρι τοῦ διαγνῶναι τὸ μέλος.

Grammar has acquired the contemplative life until what? Until discerning the written documents. Music? Until discerning the song.

Diatr. 2.9.18 ἀπ᾽ αὐτῶν δέ σοι ὄφελος οὐδὲν εἰ μὴ μέχρι τοῦ δοκεῖν ὅτι ἔχεις

but from them no benefit (is) to you except to the point of appearing that you have (something)

Diatr. 4.3.11 τήρει τὸ ἀγαθὸν τὸ σαυτοῦ ἐν παντί, τῶν δ᾽ ἄλλων κατὰ τὸ διδόμενον μέχρι τοῦ εὐλογιστεῖν ἐν αὐτοῖς, τούτῳ μόνῳ ἀρκούμενος.

You must guard your own good in everything, and for the others, according to what is given, being satisfied with this only, as far as behaving rationally as regards them.

Diatr. 4.11.33 εἰ μὴ ἐκεῖνο ὃ πεφύκαμεν, τὸν λόγον, τὰ δόγματα, τὰς ἐνεργείας, τὸ δὲ σῶμα μέχρι τοῦ καθαρίου, μέχρι τοῦ μὴ προσκόπτειν

unless this (is) what we have produced: reason, decrees, activities, but (to beautify) the body until cleansing, until not offending

Cf. Polyb.; Meg.; Amat. narr.; 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.; 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. 3.10.16; 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.

πλὴν τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Exception

Definition

It can be a preposition with the genitive, giving the exception to the sentence, but in Koine writing, it can take the meaning of addition (i.e., “besides”; e.g., Deut 18:8; 29:1; cf. LSJ, 1419).

The infinitive provides the case(s) where the action of the main verb is either falsified or unable to occur.

Translation Aids

The reader should insert “except for” to make sense of these forms.

Clarification

a. “They did not accomplish anything except for resisting.”

b. “They did not accomplish anything in addition to resisting.”

In both cases, the subjects were only able to resist.

c. “They accomplished everything except for conquering.”

They were close to meeting their goal, but they did not quite make it.

d. “They accomplished everything in addition to conquering.”

Conquering was easy, but they also did other things.

For this project, I have labeled all negative clauses as exception, reserving the term “Addition” for positive statements that are distinct from exceptions.

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

4 Macc. 8:11 οὐδὲν ὑμῖν ἀπειθήσασιν πλὴν τοῦ μετὰ στρεβλῶν ἀποθανεῖν ἀπόκειται

nothing is reserved for you, if you disobey, except dying with torments

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Greek:

Polyb. 2.58.12 ἀλλ᾽ ὅμως οὐδενὸς περαιτέρω συνεξακολουθήσαντος Μαντινεῦσι κατὰ τὴν περιπέτειαν πλὴν τοῦ διαρπαγῆναι τοὺς βίους καὶ πραθῆναι τοὺς ἐλευθέρους

but although nothing further followed the Mantineans during the strange event except for lives being torn apart and freedman being sold as slaves,

Polyb. 2.60.8 ἀλλ᾽ ὅμως τοιοῦτος ὢν οὐδενὸς ἔτυχε δεινοῦ πλὴν τοῦ καταποντισθῆναι διὰ τῶν ἐπὶ ταῖς Κεγχρεαῖς τεταγμένων

but although being such, he obtained nothing terrible except being drowned by those have command in Cenchreae

Geogr. 12.3.34 τούτων μὲν οὖν ἡγεμὼν ἦν καὶ τῶν τὴν πόλιν οἰκούντων ἱεροδούλων κύριος πλὴν τοῦ πιπράσκειν

Then he was indeed governor over these and master over the temple slaves inhabiting the city, except for selling (them).

The infinitive gives one exception to his ownership practices.

*Geogr. 17.1.28 πλὴν γὰρ τοῦ μεγάλων εἶναι καὶ πολλῶν καὶ πολυστίχων τῶν στύλων οὐδὲν ἔχει χαρίεν οὐδὲ γραφικόν

for, except for being from large and many and rows of pillars, it has nothing beautiful or able to be described

Geogr. 17.3.15 χώραν γὰρ οἰκοῦντες εὐδαίμονα πλὴν τοῦ θηρίοις πλεονάζειν

for inhabiting a blessed region except for abounding with wild beasts

The infinitive gives the exception to how blessed the region was.

πρὶν τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Subsequent Time

Definition

The adverb πρίν carries the sense of “before, formerly.”

The infinitive presents an action that occurs after the time of the main verb. This does not indicate the action is still to occur; it merely gives time relative to the verb.

Translation Aids

One can simply insert “before” or “prior to” in front of the infinitive to indicate this function.

Clarification

There is no need to search for detailed patterns of usage, as all infinitives with πρὸ τοῦ or πρὶν τοῦ function this way.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

*Tob (S) 14:15 ἐχάρη πρὶν τοῦ ἀποθανεῖν ἐπὶ Νινευη

he rejoiced over Nineveh before dying

χαρὶν τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Purpose

Definition

Translation Aids

Some key phrases that introduce purpose clauses are “in order that/to,” “so that,” or “on behalf of.”

Clarification

The reader should notice that some conjunctions with a purpose idea are prepositive (e.g., χάριν and ἕνεκα[εν]).

Clear Examples

Jewish:

2 Macc 1:14 παρεγένετο εἰς τὸν τόπον ὅ τε Ἀντίοχος καὶ οἱ σὺν αὐτῷ φίλοι χάριν τοῦ λαβεῖν τὰ χρήματα πλείονα εἰς φερνῆς λόγον

Both Antiochus and the friends with him arrived at the place on account of taking the many possessions as word of dowry.

*Sir 19:25 καὶ ἔστιν διαστρέφων χάριν τοῦ ἐκφᾶναι κρίμα

and he is distorting on account of revealing judgment

Spec. 2.126 ἔστωσαν δ᾽ οὗτοι μάλιστα μὲν συγγενεῖς, εἰ δὲ μή, πάντως γοῦν δημόται καὶ φυλέται, χάριν τοῦ μὴ τοὺς κλήρους τοὺς προικιδίους ἐπιγαμίαις ἀλλοτριοῦσθαι μένειν δ᾽ ἐν ταῖς ἐξ ἀρχῆς τεταγμέναις κατὰ φυλὰς λήξεσιν.

Now these especially must be relatives, and if not, always at least (same) lands and tribes, on account of the lots forming dowries not being alienated by marriages but remaining in the allotments according to each tribe commanded from the beginning.

Praem. 1.114 ἐὰν δὲ ἔθνος, ἐπιβήσεται πᾶσιν ἔθνεσιν ὥσπερ κεφαλὴ σώματι τοῦ περιφαίνεσθαι χάριν, οὐχ ὑπὲρ εὐδοξίας μᾶλλον ἢ τῆς τῶν ὁρώντων ὠφελείας·

And if a nation (does such), it will prevail over all nations just as the head (over) the body on account of being displayed, not for glory but rather for the benefit of those who see.

The following ὑπερ phrase are advantage or purpose, which seems to transfer the same nuance to this clause. One could also view this as a “weaker” purpose to be hypothetical result (i.e., has not happened).

Praem. 1.119 εἰ δὲ καὶ γένοιτό τις ἀσθένεια, τοῦ μὲν κακῶσαι χάριν οὐκ ἂν γένοιτο, τοῦ δ᾽ ὑπομνῆσαι τὸν θνητὸν ὅτι θνητός ἐστιν.

And if any sickness might occur, it may not occur for harming (them) but for reminding the moral that he is mortal.

Greek:

Polyb. 3.4.10 οὐδεὶς νοῦν ἔχων … πλεῖ τὰ πελάγη χάριν τοῦ περαιωθῆναι μόνον

No one having a mind … sails the open sea on account of crossing only.

Polyb. 2.14.2 ἡγοῦμαι γὰρ τὴν περὶ αὐτῶν ἱστορίαν οὐ μόνον ἀξίαν εἶναι γνώσεως καὶ μνήμης, ἀλλὰ καὶ τελέως ἀναγκαίαν χάριν τοῦ μαθεῖν τίσι μετὰ ταῦτα πιστεύσας ἀνδράσι καὶ τόποις Ἀννίβας ἐπεβάλετο καταλύειν τὴν Ῥωμαίων δυναστείαν.

For I consider the history about them not only to be worthy of knowledge and mention, but also perfectly necessary for learning on which men and places after these (things) relying, Hannibal desiring to destroy the Roman power.

Polyb. 3.38.4 ταῦτα μὲν οὖν εἰρήσθω μοι χάριν τοῦ μὴ τελέως ἀνυπότακτον εἶναι τοῖς ἀπείροις τῶν τόπων τὴν διήγησιν

Therefore indeed these things must be spoken by me for the report not being thoroughly made subject to those ignorant of places.

Polyb. 3.106.4 τοὺς δὲ κατὰ μέρος ἀκροβολισμοὺς ὡς ἐνεργοτάτους ποιεῖσθαι καὶ συνεχεστάτους χάριν τοῦ γυμνάζειν καὶ παρασκευάζειν εὐθαρσεῖς τοὺς νέους πρὸς τοὺς ὁλοσχερεῖς ἀγῶνας

but the skirmishes to be made in each part as busy and continuous for training and preparing the young men (with) courage for entire battles

Polyb. 4.9.10 ἀεὶ γάρ ποτε τῆς τῶν Ἠλείων ἀντείχοντο φιλίας Αἰτωλοὶ χάριν τοῦ διὰ τούτων ἐπιπλοκὰς λαμβάνειν πρὸς τὰς ἁρπαγὰς τὰς ἐκ Πελοποννήσου καὶ λῃστείας.

For the Aetolians have always clinged to the friendship of the Eleans, for taking connections through these for seizings and robbings the (places) of the Peloponnese.

Polyb. 5.88.6 πρὸς δὲ τούτοις εἰς τὰς θυσίας δέκα τάλαντα καὶ τὴν ἐπαύξησιν τῶν πολιτῶν ἄλλα δέκα, χάριν τοῦ τὴν πᾶσαν εἰς ἑκατὸν τάλαντα γενέσθαι δωρεάν.

And in addition to these (they placed) ten talents for sacrifices and another ten for the increase of citizens, for the entire gift becoming to one hundred talents.

One could argue this is actual result, but χαριν is typically limited to purpose or causal nuances.

Geogr. 10.3.14 τὸν δ᾽ Ἀγαμέμνονα μικρὸν ὑπολειφθῆναι βουλόμενον τοῦ ἐξιλάσασθαι τὴν Ἀθηνᾶν χάριν

and Agamemnon wishing to be left behind for a while in order to propitiate Athena

Cf. Polyb.; Meg.; Amat. narr.; 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. 49; Nicaeen.; Conc. Apam.; Apam.; Dial.; Pol.; Grat.; Def.; Tumult.; Cont.; In cont.; Rec. mag.; Admin.; 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. 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

Clear Examples

Jewish:

1 Macc 11:11 καὶ ἐψόγισεν αὐτὸν χάριν τοῦ ἐπιθυμῆσαι αὐτὸν τῆς βασιλείας αὐτοῦ

And he blamed him, because of him desiring his kingdom.

3. Substitution

Definition

The infinitive contains something which done rather than something else. The subject has decided to act one way instead of another.

Translation Aids

Some key phrases to use for this function are “instead of” or “in place of.”

Clarification

This category is distinct from “Comparison,” though sometimes the line is not as evident as one may like.

In addition, this function is similar to “Exchange,” but the latter contains main verbs with more of a retributive idea. That is, something is done in response to the infinitive.

As opposed to the preposition with the accusative, ὑπέρ with the genitive is not comparative but takes a substitution idea (cf. BDAG 1030–31; LSJ, 1857–58).

Clear Examples

Greek:

Polyb. 2.61.10 προείλαντο στέρεσθαι χώρας, τάφων, ἱερῶν, πατρίδος, τῶν ὑπαρχόντων, ἁπάντων συλλήβδην τῶν ἐν ἀνθρώποις ἀναγκαιοτάτων χάριν τοῦ μὴ προδοῦναι τὴν πρὸς τοὺς συμμάχους πίστιν.

They chose to lose regions, tombs, temples, homeland, possessions, collectively all (things) most necessary among men, instead of not abandoning faith with the allies.

One could translate the verb as “prefer” and the infinitive would be comparative. One could also see the infinitive as purpose, but the context indicates this group chose one entity instead of another.

χωρὶς τοῦ + Infinitive

1. Addition

Definition

χωρίς can take the genitive with the meaning “without, apart from,” (LSJ, 2016; BDAG, 1095). This can be used to express multiple ideas, though, including spatial or instrumental separation and addition (“besides”).

The infinitival clause provides a primary, basic action to which the main clause adds a secondary or accompanying action.

Translation Aids

The two translation helps to insert for this function are “in addition to” or “besides.”

Clarification

One distinction to make is between Exception and Addition infinitives. The two pragmatic categories would appear to be polar opposites to one another, but this is only the case when the independent clause is positive. When the main clause is negated, the two functions mean the same thing.

a. “They did not accomplish anything except for resisting.”

b. “They did not accomplish anything in addition to resisting.”

In both cases, the subjects were only able to resist.

c. “They accomplished everything except for conquering.”

They were close to meeting their goal, but they did not quite make it.

d. “They accomplished everything in addition to conquering.”

Conquering was easy, but they also did other things.

For this project, I have labeled all negative clauses as exception, reserving the term “Addition” for positive statements that are distinct from exceptions.

Clear Examples

Jewish:

Let. Arist. 1:123 χωρὶς καὶ τοῦ πρὸς τὸν βασιλέα γεγραφέναι περὶ τῆς ἀποκαταστάσεως αὐτῶν πολλὰ παρεκάλεσε τὸν Ἀνδρέαν ποιῆσαι

for in addition to having written to the king concerning their restoration, he encouraged Andrew to do many things

Spec. 2.164 χωρὶς δὲ τοῦ τὴν νομοθεσίαν τρόπον τινὰ διδασκαλίαν ἱερωσύνης εἶναι καὶ τὸν βιοῦντα κατὰ τοὺς νόμους εὐθὺς ἱερέα, μᾶλλον δ᾽ ἀρχιερέα, παρ᾽ ἀληθείᾳ δικαζούσῃ νομίζεσθαι κἀκεῖνο πρόσεστιν ἐξαίρετον.

And in addition to the given law being in a certain way a teaching about priesthood and the one who lives according to the laws immediately being considered a priest, or rather a high priest, from a true judgment, this thing is also remarkable.

Greek:

Polyb. 3.32.4 χωρὶς γὰρ τοῦ πολλαπλασίους αὐτὰς ὑπάρχειν τῶν ἡμετέρων ὑπομνημάτων, οὐδὲ καταλαβεῖν ἐξ αὐτῶν βεβαίως οὐδὲν οἷόν τε τοὺς ἀναγινώσκοντας

For in addition to them being many times as long as our recollections, readers neither take anything from them as firm

Polybius mentions two reasons his history is better than other monographs.

Diod. 2.23.1 χωρὶς γὰρ τοῦ μηδ᾽ ὑφ᾽ ἑνὸς τῶν ἔξωθεν ὁρᾶσθαι βίον ἔζησε γυναικός

for he lived the life of a woman in addition to not being seen by one of those outside

Reading the verse alone allows for the meaning of separation, but previous paragraphs speak of prior kings not being seen by those outside the palace. Diodorus introduces the new king, Sardanapallus, by saying he exceeded those before him in laziness.

Possible Examples

Jewish:

Spec. 3.142 χωρὶς τοῦ μηδένα οὕτως ἠλίθιον εἶναι, ὡς λυπεῖν ἕτερον ἐπιχειρεῖν, ἐν οἷς αὐτὸς ἀδικηθήσεται

apart from no one being foolish in this way, as attempting to cause another to grieve, with which (things) he will be wronged

The context of the paragraph is that a master cannot be accused of murdering a servant if he lives a day or two past being beaten. The master has a “solid” defense, in that, the slave was allowed to live as long as possible. In addition, no one is so foolish as to try to hurt another which will result in harming himself as well. Thus, the infinitive seems to give an additional “defense” of the master, but its exact relationship to the sentence is difficult to determine.

Greek:

P. Oxy. 2134.27–28 καὶ ἐπίτειμον ἀργυρίου δραχμὰς ἐξακοσίας καὶ εἰς τὸ δημόσιον τὰς ἴσας, χωρὶς τοῦ μένειν κύρια τὰ προγεγραμμένα

and I will pay six hundred drachmas of silver and to the treasury the same amount, with reference to the proclaimed (provisions) remaining valid

Moulton-Milligan (696) list the preposition with infinitives in the papyri with the meaning of reference. In this sense, it almost indicate a sense of purpose or result. On the other hand, “addition” seems to include that notion, so without multiplying categories, it is best to leave it unresolved.

2. Exception

Definition

The infinitive provides the case(s) where the action of the main verb is either falsified or unable to occur.

Translation Aids

The reader should insert “except for” to make sense of these forms.

Clarification

a. “They did not accomplish anything except for resisting.”

b. “They did not accomplish anything in addition to resisting.”

In both cases, the subjects were only able to resist.

c. “They accomplished everything except for conquering.”

They were close to meeting their goal, but they did not quite make it.

d. “They accomplished everything in addition to conquering.”

Conquering was easy, but they also did other things.

For this project, I have labeled all negative clauses as exception, reserving the term “Addition” for positive statements that are distinct from exceptions.

Clear Examples

Greek:

Polyb. 2.51.6 τὸ μήτε τὸν βασιλέα δοκεῖν ἂν βοηθῆσαι χωρὶς τοῦ κομίσασθαι τὸν Ἀκροκόρινθον καὶ λαβεῖν ὁρμητήριον πρὸς τὸν ἐνεστῶτα πόλεμον τὴν τῶν Κορινθίων πόλιν

neither the king seemed to help (them) without recovering the Acrocorinthus and taking the city of the Corinthians as a military base for the present war

The infinitives give the condition on which the king would help them.

P. Oxy. 5169.17 χωρὶς τοῦ τὴν ἐσομένην ἔφοδον ἄκυρον εἶναι καὶ προσαποτίνιν Ἀρσινόην ... τό τε βλάβος καὶ ἐπίτιμον ἀργυρίου δραχμὰς τριακοσίας

apart from any future claim being invalid, he will also pay Arsione … both the damage and a fine of silver of three hundred drachmas

Double check verb of papyri. And fix spreadsheet, but this seems to say someone will pay Arsione drachmas unless the contract becomes invalid.

3. Subtraction/Instrumental Separation

Definition

χωρίς can take the genitive with the meaning “without, apart from,” (LSJ, 2016; BDAG 1095). This term thus has the implication of separation, though instrumental may not always be the best label.

Translation Aids

Some words and phrases to insert before these infinitives would be “apart from, without.”

Clarification

Clear Examples

Greek:

P. Oxy. 532.3–5 ἔδει μέν σε χωρ[ίς τ]οῦ με γεγραφέναι σοι διὰ Σαήτου ἀναπέμψαι τὰς (δραχμὰς) κ

Indeed, you sending the twenty drachmas through Saetas is necessary without me having written to you

This is the opposite of causal. It has the sense of separation or subtraction. This is causal separation, but I think it still fits with the means/larger perspective category.

Dative Object

ἅμα τῷ + Infinitive

1. Antecedent Time

Definition

The infinitive presents an action that occurs before the time of the main verb. This does not necessarily imply the action has already happened; it merely gives time relative to the verb.

Translation Aids

The reader should insert “after” before the infinitive.

Clarification

After his study of Polybius, Allen was able to make the following conclusions of how tense affects infinitives preceded by ἅμα: “With the present infinitive … it represents an action which began just before the action expressed by the main verb, and may continue with it. … With the aorist infinitive … the action is represented as taking places immediately before the action expressed by the main verb.” Hewlett agrees and makes the following distinction between infinitives with ἅμα and ἐν. “In Polybius, however, ἅμα τῷ c. inf. has a different function from this. He uses it, not to express a contemporaneous action for which he employs ἐν τῷ, but one which is immediately antecedent to the main action. The precise force given is dependent upon the tense of the infinitive; with the aorist a single action is introduced by ἅμα and conceived as occurring immediately before the action expressed by the main verb; with the present an action which is commenced immediately before the main action, but may be going on at the same time.”

(LSJ, 75, links the two ideas of simultaneous time and immediate past with its examples; BDAG, 49, only lists simultaneous events)

Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

*Ps 36:20 ὅτι οἱ ἁμαρτωλοὶ ἀπολοῦνται οἱ δὲ ἐχθροὶ τοῦ κυρίου ἅμα τῷ δοξασθῆναι αὐτοὺς καὶ ὑψωθῆναι ἐκλιπόντες ὡσεὶ καπνὸς ἐξέλιπον.

Because sinners will perish; and the enemies of the Lord vanish, vanishing like smoke, when/after them being glorified and exalted.

This is probably not at the exact moment of exaltation, but it comes shortly after. NETS, 565, “as soon as they are glorified and exalted, vanishing like smoke they vanished.”

*Jonah 4:8 καὶ ἐγένετο ἅμα τῷ ἀνατεῖλαι τὸν ἥλιον καὶ προσέταξεν ὁ θεὸς πνεύματι καύσωνος συγκαίοντι

And it occurred, after the sun rising, that God commanded a burning wind of heat

NETS, 805: “as soon as.”

Cf. Gen; Exod; Lev; Num; Deut; Josh; Ps; Hos; Amos; Mic; Joel; Obad; Jonah; Nah; Hab; Zeph; Hag; Zech; Mal; Isa .

Jewish:

3 Macc. 3:25 προστετάχαμεν ἅμα τῷ προσπεσεῖν τὴν ἐπιστολὴν τήνδε αὐθωρὶ τοὺς ἐννεμομένους … ἀποστεῖλαι πρὸς ἡμᾶς

We have decreed, after this letter falls (to you), to send to us, those who reside among you

This sending would have to be after the letter was delivered, but there is urgency (i.e., “as soon as”).

4 Macc. 8:29 ὥστε ἅμα τῷ παύσασθαι τὸν τύραννον συμβουλεύοντα αὐτοῖς μιαροφαγῆσαι πάντες διὰ μιᾶς φωνῆς ὁμοῦ ὥσπερ ἀπὸ τῆς αὐτῆς ψυχῆς εἶπον

so that after the tyrant ceased counseling them to eat unclean food, all with one voice said together as from the same soul

Abr. 1.66 μετ᾽ ὀλίγων δὲ οὗτος ἢ καὶ μόνος ἅμα τῷ κελευσθῆναι μετανίστατο

And with few (people) or even alone, after being commanded, he departed.

The passage goes on to say he left in spirit before body. This happened shortly after being commanded, but still “after.”

Spec. 3.94 ὅθεν κελεύει φαρμακευτὰς καὶ φαρμακίδας μηδεμίαν ἡμέραν ἀλλὰ μηδ᾽ ὥραν ἐπιβιοῦν, ἀλλ᾽ ἅμα τῷ ἁλῶναι τεθνάναι

Whence he commanded sorcerers and witches to survive no more day neither an hour, but to die after seizing (them).

The point is for them to be killed right away, but it still happens after arresting them.

Greek:

Polyb. 1.21.3 ἅμα τῷ συντελεσθῆναι τὰς ναῦς καθελκύσαντες

launching the ships after being completed

Context still seems to indicate this is immediate past.

Polyb. 2.13.7 διόπερ ἅμα τῷ διαπρεσβευσάμενοι πρὸς τὸν Ἀσδρούβαν ποιήσασθαι συνθήκας … εὐθέως ἐξήνεγκαν τὸν πρὸς τοὺς κατὰ τὴν Ἰταλίαν Κελτοὺς πόλεμον.

Therefore, after making a treaty having sent envoys to Hasdrubal … they immediately carried out the battle against the Celts in Italy.

Polyb. 2.33.5 ἅμα δὲ τῷ πρὸς τὰ δόρατα ταῖς πρώταις καταφοραῖς χρωμένων τῶν Γαλατῶν ἀχρειωθῆναι τὰς μαχαίρας συνδραμόντες εἰς τὰς χεῖρας τοὺς μὲν Κελτοὺς ἀπράκτους ἐποίησαν

And after the swords being damaged (because of) the Gauls using the downward strokes first toward the spears, (Romans) made the Celts truly unsuccessful, meeting in battle with hands.

Polyb. 3.93.7 ἅμα δὲ τῷ κλῖναι τὸ τρίτον μέρος τῆς νυκτὸς εὐθέως ἐξῆγε τοὺς λειτουργοὺς

After the third part of the night declining, he was immediately leading out the servants.

This is immediate past.

Polyb. 5.20.8 ἅμα γὰρ τῷ συνιδεῖν ἐπιφαινομένους τοὺς πολεμίους ἀφέμενοι πάντων σπουδῇ πρὸς τὸ χωρίον προσέφυγον.

For after seeing the enemies appearing, leaving all with haste, they fled to the fortified place.

Aorists make is summary. This cannot be at the moment of seeing, but right after they see the enemy. LCL 138:57, “as soon as they saw.”

Diod. 3.33.4 νόμιμον γάρ ἐστιν αὐτοῖς ταύτας κατὰ μηδένα τῶν τρόπων τύπτειν, ὅθεν ἅμα τῷ φανῆναι παύονται τοῦ τοξεύειν.

For striking them according to no manner is customary to them; thus, as soon as appearing, they cease shooting.

The women appearing as protection for men would occur before the cessation of fire.

Ness. (60) 5 ᾔδει γὰρ ὅτι ἅμα τῷ μεταβαλεῖν τὸν βίον καὶ τὴν ἄσκησιν εὐχείρωτος ἔσται καὶ ἀσθενής.

For he knew that after changing (way of ) life and practice, he will be easy to master and weak.

The antecedent time is clear, but one could also view this as conditional.

Diatr. 1.2.30 ἢ δῆλον ὅτι εὐθὺς ἅμα τῷ τὴν παρασκευὴν ἔχειν ἀπαντᾷ καὶ συναίσθησις αὐτῆς;

Or (is) it clear that awareness of it even immediately happens with having provision?

The adverb “immediately” makes this immediate past, reinforcing the close temporal nuances of this structure.

Cf. Polyb. 3.19.1; 4.12.2*; Meg.; Amat. narr.; 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.; 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. .

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:

P. Oxy. 2190.41–43 νῦν δὲ ἅμα τῷ δεθῆναι ὑπὸ Ἰσιδώρου, ὥσ[π]ερ ἦν ἄξιον, ἔφυγεν καὶ ἀνῆλθεν

but now after being imprisoned by Isidorus, as was deserved, he escaped and returned

This is not listed under “possible” because its antecedence is questionable. Rather, it should probably be more focused with a concessive sense. The passage continues that he is “far from suffering what he deserves,” (18:148), implying he was imprisoned but escaped before proper punishment. LSJ (75) has many examples of this conjunction “as soon as” and sometimes “at same time.”

2. 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

Jewish:

*3 Bar. 7:5 καὶ ἅμα τῷ λάμψαι τὸν ἥλιον ἐξέτεινε καὶ ὁ φοῖνιξ τὰς αὐτοῦ πτέρυγας. (or A.T.)

And with the sun shining out, the phoenix also was spreading its wings.

This could be Antecedent Time in an immediate sense, but Charlesworth (1:671) has it translated, “at the same time.”

Greek:

Diod. 3.26.2 ὅταν γὰρ τὸ ζῷον διεξιὸν γένηται κατὰ τὸ δένδρον ἐν ᾧ συμβαίνει τὸν σκοπεύοντα κεκρύφθαι, ἅμα τῷ παραλλάττειν τὸν τόπον ταῖς μὲν χερσὶν ἐδράξατο τῆς οὐρᾶς

For when the beast, passing through, becomes near the tree in which the one watching happens to be hidden, when passing the spot, he indeed seizes the tail with hands.

One could argue the “seizing” occurs after the passing by, since he is grabbing the tail, but this does seem to divide time too thinly.

3. 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

Clear Examples

Greek:

Diod. 3.56.5 μεταγαγεῖν δ᾽ αὐτοῦ τὴν προσηγορίαν ἐπὶ τὸν κόσμον, ἅμα μὲν τῷ δοκεῖν οἰκείως ἐσχηκέναι πρὸς τὰς τῶν ἄστρων ἐπιτολάς τε καὶ δύσεις καὶ τἄλλα τὰ γινόμενα περὶ τὸν κόσμον

And to transfer his name over the world, on one hand because of seeming to carry familiarly with the risings and settings of the stars and the others being around the world.

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:

1 Macc 13:7 καὶ ἀνεζωπύρησεν τὸ πνεῦμα τοῦ λαοῦ ἅμα τοῦ ἀκοῦσαι τῶν λόγων τούτων.

And the spirit of the people revived after hearing these words.

This could also be classified as causal, but their restoration at least occurred after (even if “just after”) hearing the speech.

Greek:

Diatr. 2.1.12 ἂν γάρ τις ἐκεῖ μεταθῇ τὸ εὐλαβές, ὅπου προαίρεσις καὶ ἔργα προαιρέσεως, εὐθὺς ἅμα τῷ θέλειν εὐλαβεῖσθαι καὶ ἐπ᾽ αὐτῷ κειμένην ἕξει τὴν ἔκκλισιν

For if someone transfers caution there, where purpose and works of purpose (are), immediately with desiring to be cautious, he will also have the refusal lying on him.

He has the ability to refuse because he has transferred caution to the realm of his control. This could also be temporal.

4. Purpose

Definition

Translation Aids

Some key phrases that introduce purpose clauses are “in order that/to,” “so that,” or “on behalf of.”

Clarification

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:

And to transfer his name over the world, on one hand because of seeming to carry familiarly with the risings and settings of the stars and the others being around the world, and on account of surpassing (his) good deeds with greatness of honors.

This text from above continues with a second infinitival clause, but the timeframe is future and contains the purpose of giving this individual such a high name. One could subsume this under causal category, though.

Accusative Object

πλὴν τό + Infinitive

1. Exception

Definition

The infinitive provides the case(s) where the action of the main verb is either falsified or unable to occur.

Translation Aids

The reader should insert “except for” to make sense of these forms.

Clarification

a. “They did not accomplish anything except for resisting.”

b. “They did not accomplish anything in addition to resisting.”

In both cases, the subjects were only able to resist.

c. “They accomplished everything except for conquering.”

They were close to meeting their goal, but they did not quite make it.

d. “They accomplished everything in addition to conquering.”

Conquering was easy, but they also did other things.

For this project, I have labeled all negative clauses as exception, reserving the term “Addition” for positive statements that are distinct from exceptions.

Clear Examples

Greek:

3 Regn. (3) 89 ἀπὸ δὲ τούτων οὐκ ἔστιν ἄλλη φυλακὴ πλὴν τὸ ἀγαπᾶσθαι

And no other guard is from these (things) except being loved

Tuesday, December 27, 2022

Improper Prepositions with Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

Articular Infinitives with Improper Prepositions

Genitive Object

ἄνευ τοῦ + Infinitive

ἄχρι τοῦ + Infinitive

δίχα τοῦ + Infinitive

ἕνεκα(εν) τοῦ + Infinitive

ἔξω τοῦ + Infinitive

ἕως τοῦ + Infinitive

μεχρὶ(ς) τοῦ + Infinitive

πλὴν τοῦ + Infinitive

πρὶν τοῦ + Infinitive

χαρὶν τοῦ + Infinitive

χωρὶς τοῦ + Infinitive

Dative Object

ἅμα τῷ + Infinitive

Accusative Object

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