Something to Chew On: Nominative Articular Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

τό + 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.Subject

a. Definition

The nominative articular infinitive frequently serves as the subject of the main verb, as no other substantive or clause functions as such in the sentence. That is, no other person or agent performs the action or is acted upon from a syntactical perspective.

b. Translation Aids

The infinitive will most likely be translated as a gerund. As Wallace notes, “In place of the infinitive (or infinitive phrase), substitute X. Then say the sentence with this substitution. If X could be replaced by an appropriate noun functioning as subject, then the infinitive is most likely a subject infinitive.”

c. Clarification

In equative clauses confusion can arise from having both a subject and predicate nominative. The reader is directed to the function of “Predicate Nominative” below to clarify the distinction between these two uses. In short, the subject is the known entity, indicated by a pronoun (except for interrogative pronouns), a proper name, or an articular substantive.

One should also note that the infinitive is not limited to functioning as subject of finite verbs. Participles in either the nominative or accusative case can take an infinitival agent in the respective case. In addition, since I agree with the simplicity of designating certain accusative nouns as “subjects” of an infinitive and not “accusatives of reference,” I have labeled several accusative articular infinitives as “subjects” of other infinitives in the same clause. A few are listed below.

d. Clear Examples

LXX (translated):

Ps 72:28 ἐμοὶ δὲ τὸ προσκολλᾶσθαι τῷ θεῷ ἀγαθόν ἐστιν

But cleaving to God is good for me

Ps 91:2 ἀγαθὸν τὸ ἐξομολογεῖσθαι τῷ κυρίῳ καὶ ψάλλειν τῷ ὀνόματί σου

Giving thanks to the Lord and making music to your name (is) good

Jonah 4:3 κύριε λαβὲ τὴν ψυχήν μου ἀπ᾽ ἐμοῦ ὅτι καλὸν τὸ ἀποθανεῖν με ἢ ζῆν με

Lord, take my life from me, because me dying (is) better than me living

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

Jewish:

2 Macc 2:30 τὸ μὲν ἐμβατεύειν καὶ περίπατον ποιεῖσθαι λόγων καὶ πολυπραγμονεῖν ἐντοῖς κατὰ μέρος τῷ τῆς ἱστορίας ἀρχηγέτῃ καθήκει

Standing upon and making discussion of matters and inquiring into things according to each part is proper for the first author of history

Let. Aris. 1:127τὸ γὰρ καλῶς ζῇν ἐν τῷ τὰ νόμιμα συντηρεῖν εἶναι· (verbal)

for living well being in keeping the laws

Let. Aris. 1:150 τὸ γὰρ διχηλεύειν καὶ διαστέλλειν ὁπλῆς ὄνυχας σημεῖόν ἐστι

for the dividing and separating claws of the hoof is a sign

4 Macc. 11:25τὸ γὰρ μὴ δυνηθῆναί σε μεταπεῖσαι τὸν λογισμὸν ἡμῶν … οὐ κατάλυσίςἐστίν σου;

For you not being able to sway our reasoning … is your ruin, is it not?

Opif. 1.8ὅτι ἀναγκαιότατόν ἐστιν ἐν τοῖς οὖσι τὸ μὲν εἶναι δραστήριον αἴτιον

that indeed in existing things, a cause being active is most necessary

Abr. 1.62νομίζων ἰσότιμον εἶναι τῷ τελειῶσαι τὸ ταχέως τὸ προσταχθὲν ἀνύσαι. (of verbal)

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

Ios. 1.9τὸ γὰρ τὴν ἐπὶ τοῖς οἰκείοις ἐλπίζειν καὶ καραδοκεῖν ἡγεμονίαν ἀπευκτὸν ἄγαν

for hoping for and expecting management over relatives (is) very abominable

Spec. 1.319ἑκάτερον γὰρ καὶ τὸ διδάσκειν καὶ τὸ μανθάνειν τελετὰς οὐ μικρὸνἀνοσιούργημα.

For both teaching and learning initiations (is) not a small act of impiety.

A.J. 4.3τε συμφέρειν αὐτοῖς τὸ αὐτοκράτορσιν εἶναι (verbal)

and being their own masters benefitting them

A.J. 4.16χαλεπώτερον ἤδη τυγχάνειν τοῦ βιάζεσθαι τό τε λεληθότως ἐξυβρίζειν

Breaking out in imperceptible violence (was) already more difficult to make occur than constraining with force

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. 1.1.1ἴσως ἀναγκαῖον ἦν τὸ προτρέπεσθαι πάντας πρὸς τὴν αἵρεσιν καὶ παραδοχὴντῶν τοιούτων ὑπομνημάτων

urging all toward the taking and receiving of such memorials would be equally necessary

Polyb. 3.21.9ἡμῖν δ᾽ ἀναγκαῖον εἶναι δοκεῖ τὸ μὴ παραλιπεῖν ἄσκεπτον τοῦτο τὸ μέρος

but not leaving this part (as) unconsidered seems to be necessary for us

Polyb. 5.58.4ἔφη γὰρ εὔηθες εἶναι τὸ Κοίλης μὲν Συρίας ἐπιθυμεῖν καὶ στρατεύειν ἐπὶταύτην, Σελεύκειαν δὲ περιορᾶν ὑπὸ Πτολεμαίου κρατουμένην (of verbal)

For he said desiring Coele-Syria and advancing against that (region) and overlookingSeleucia being seized by Ptolemy to be foolish.

The articular infinitives are subjects of the simple infinitive of indirect discourse.

Diod. 3.3.4τό τε γὰρ τοὺς βασιλεῖς θεοὺς νομίζειν καὶ τὸ περὶ τὰς ταφὰς μάλιστασπουδάζειν καὶ πολλὰ τοιαῦθ᾽ ἕτερα πράττειν Αἰθιόπων ὑπάρχειν ἐπιτηδεύματα(of verbal)

for both considering kings (as) gods and especially hastening concerning the burials and doing many other such (things) being customs of Ethiopians

Nat. d. 27.11ἐπειδὴ κατὰ τὸν γεννῶντά ἐστι καὶ τὸ σῴζειν ἃ γεννᾷ

since saving what he births is according to the one who gives birth

P. Oxy. 237.8.16ἵν’ ἐν βεβαίῳ τὸ ἀναλαβεῖν ὀφειλόμ[ενα] ᾖ

in order that receiving back the things owed may be assured

Diatr. 1.11.7καὶ ἁπλῶς τὸ ἁμαρτάνειν εἶναι κατὰ φύσιν (of verbal)

and sinning openly to be according to nature

Diatr. 2.6.3καλὸν δὲ καὶ τὸ εἰδέναι τὴν αὑτοῦ παρασκευὴν καὶ δύναμιν

and even knowing his preparation and ability (is) good

Chaer. 7.2.6Ἐπήγειρε δὲ μᾶλλον αὐτὸν καὶ διαπρεπέστερον ἐποίησεν ἡ πρὸςβασιλἕ̣̣̓φιλονεικία καὶ τὸ δεῖξαι θέλειν ὅτι οὐκ ἦν εὐκαταφρόνητος, ἀλλ̓ ἄξιοςτιμῆς.

But the hostility toward the king and the desiring to show that he was not negligible but worthy of honor awakened him more and made (him) more distinguished.

Herm. Sim. 8 6:6ἡ μετάνοια τῶν ἁμαρτιῶν ζωὴν ἔχει τὸ δὲ μὴ μετανοῆσαι θάνατον

repentance of sinners has/brings life, but not repenting (has) death

Cf. Polyb. 2.61.3; 5.31.4; 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

a. Definition

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.

b. Translation Aids

A gerund translation is often appropriate for the infinitive.

c. 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.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

2 Macc 2:28 τὸ μὲν διακριβοῦν περὶ ἑκάστων τῷ συγγραφεῖ παραχωρήσαντες τὸ δὲἐπιπορεύεσθαι τοῖς ὑπογραμμοῖς τῆς ἐπιτομῆς διαπονοῦντες (of verbal)

on one hand, conceding examining about each thing to the historian, but cultivating arriving at the examples of an abridgement

Sib. Or. 2:307καὶ καλέσουσι καλὸν τὸ θανεῖν καὶ φεύξετ᾽ ἀπ᾽ αὐτῶν.

and they will call dying (to be) good, and it will flee from them

Let. Aris. 1:122καὶ τὸ κατοίεσθαι καὶ νομίζειν ὑπερφρονεῖν ἑτέρους ὑπερβεβηκότες, τὴνδ᾽ ὁμιλίαν καὶ τὸ συνακούειν καὶ πρὸς ἕκαστον ἀποκρίνεσθαι δεόντωςπαραδεδεγμένοι (of verbal)

and passing over being conceited and considering despising others, but demonstrating instruction and hearing and answering each one as is proper

Let. Aris. 1:265 τὸ δὲ γίνεσθαι κατὰ προαίρεσιν ταῦτα ὁ θεὸς ἐπιτελεῖ

and God accomplishes these things’ occurring according to purpose

Abr. 1.192πρῶτον μὲν τοίνυν τὸ πείθεσθαι θεῷ παρὰ πᾶσι … ἐπετήδευεν,

Therefore indeed, he practiced first obeying God beyond all (men)

A.J. 2.31οὕτως ἀποθανεῖν ἐᾶσαι καὶ τό γε μὴ μιανθῆναι τὰς χεῖρας αὐτῶν κερδαίνειν (of verbal)

so as to allow (him) dying and gaining their hands not being defiled

A.J. 2.41εὐτύχημα ἡγησάμενον τὸ τὴν δέσποιναν αὐτοῦ δεηθῆναι (of verbal)

considering his mistress asking (as) fortunate

There is not indirect discourse infinitive. This is a double object.

A.J. 2.238Μωυσῆς … φανερὰν τοῖς Αἰγυπτίοις τὴν ἀρετὴν ἐποίησε καὶ τὸ ἐπὶ ταπεινώσειμὲν τῇ ἐκείνων ἐπ᾽ αὐξήσει δὲ τῶν Ἑβραίων γεγονέναι

Moses … made his virtue manifest to the Egyptians and being on one hand for humbling to them but for the increase of the Hebrews

A.J. 6.150εἰ μὴ νομίζεις ὅμοιον ὄλεθρον τὸ θύεσθαι ταῦτα τῷ θεῷ

unless you consider these things being sacrificed to God (as) like death

There is not indirect discourse infinitive. This is a double object.

Greek:

Polyb. 2.63.1διότι Πτολεμαῖος τὸ μὲν χορηγεῖν ἀπολέγει

because Ptolemy indeed refuses supplying

Polyb. 3.74.5τὸ μὲν ἐπιβοηθεῖν τούτοις ἢ πάλιν εἰς τὴν ἑαυτῶν ἀπιέναι παρεμβολὴνἀπέγνωσαν

indeed they rejected helping these or returning again to their own camp

Polyb. 5.70.2τὸ μὲν οὖν καταπειράζειν τῆς πόλεως ἀπέγνω διὰ τὴν προϋπάρχουσαναὐτόθι δαψίλειαν τῆς χορηγίας

He gave up making any attempt on the city because of the abundance of supplies existing there

Amat. narr. 15.2Λεύκιππος, Οἰνομάου παῖς, εἰς ἐπιθυμίαν ἦλθε, καὶ τὸ μὲν ἄλλως πωςαὐτῆς πειρᾶσθαι ἀπέγνω.

Leucippus, son of Oenomaus, came toward desire, and indeed he gave up making an attempt of her some other way.

Diod. 2.21.2ἐζήλου δὲ τρυφὴν καὶ ῥᾳθυμίαν καὶ τὸ μηδέποτε κακοπαθεῖν μηδὲ μεριμνᾶν

and he was striving after luxury and relaxation and never suffering harm nor worrying

Diod. 5.75.2φασὶ δ᾽ αὐτὸν καὶ μέτρα καὶ σταθμὰ καὶ τὰ διὰ τῆς ἐμπορίας κέρδη πρῶτονἐπινοῆσαι καὶ τὸ λάθρᾳ τὰ τῶν ἄλλων σφετερίζεσθαι. (of verbal)

And they say him devising both measures and weights and gains through commerce and usurping the (things) of others secretly.

P. Oxy. 237.8.9πολλοί τῶν χρήματα ἀπαιτουμένων τὸ τὰ δίκαια ποιεῖν τοῖς ἀπαιτοῦσιἀφέντες

many who are pressed for payment dismissing doing the just (claims) to those asking

P. Oxy. 465.6.174–178οὗτος ποιεῖ … καὶ τὸ χαρίζεσθαι καὶ τὰς πόλεις

this makes … and the cities also to bestow favors

3 Regn. (3) 16ὁμολογοῦσιν ἁπάντων ἀηδέστατον τὸ κολακεύειν

they confess flattering (as) most distasteful of all (things)

There is not indirect discourse infinitive. This is a double object.

2 Clem. 5:6τί οὗν ἐστὶν ποιήσαντας ἐπιτυχεῖν αὐτῶν εἰ μὴ τὸ ὁσίως καὶ δικαίωςἀναστρέφεσθαι καὶ τὰ κοσμικὰ ταῦτα ὡς ἀλλότρια ἡγεῖσθαι καὶ μὴ ἐπιθυμεῖναὐτῶν; (of verbal)

Then obtaining them is by doing what, except behaving in a holy and righteous way and considering these worldly things as foreign and not desiring them?

Ign. Trall. 4:2ἀγαπῶ μὲν γὰρ τὸ παθεῖν ἀλλ᾽ οὐκ οἶδα εἰ ἄξιός εἰμι

For indeed I love suffering, but I do not know if I am worthy

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. .

3.Predicate Nominative

a. Definition

The nominative articular infinitive sometimes functions as a regular predicate nominative. In these constructions “the predicate nominative (PN) is approximately the same as the subject (S) and is joined to it by an equative verb, whether stated or implied.”

b. Translation Aids

As with subject infinitives, translating the infinitive as a gerund is most likely.

c. Clarification

By definition, predicate nominatives only occur in equative clauses. Therefore, the main verb is probably one of the three main equative verbs: εἰμί, γίνομαι, and ὑπάρχω.

In equative clauses confusion can arise from having both a subject and predicate nominative. As mentioned above, the subject is indicated by a pronoun (except for interrogative pronouns), a proper name, or an articular substantive, and such indicators are listed in the appropriate order of importance. That is, if both nominative substantives meet one of the three criteria, the pronoun will be the subject, while the latter two seem equally prone to be subject. “The pronoun has greatest priority … Articular nouns and proper names seem to have equal priority.” In these cases, word order may have the final word.

As with subject infinitives, those functioning as predicate nominatives are not limited to finite verbs in theory. I DON’T KNOW IF I HAVE ANY LISTED BELOW, but equative participles can also take predicate nominatives. However, equative infinitives most likely have an accusative functioning as “subject,” and thus, the τό infinitive after the verb is most likely a predicate accusative. This also applies to accusative articular infinitives after participles with an accusative agent.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

A.J. 9.222αὕτη δὲ ἦν ἡ πρὸς τὸν θεὸν εὐσέβεια καὶ τὸ τηρεῖν τὰ νόμιμα

and this was godliness toward God and keeping the laws

According to Wallace’s pecking order, demonstratives take precedence.

Greek:

Polyb. 2.43.8τοῦτο δ᾽ ἦν τὸ Μακεδόνας μὲν ἐκβαλεῖν ἐκ Πελοποννήσου, τὰς δὲμοναρχίας καταλῦσαι, βεβαιῶσαι δ᾽ ἑκάστοις τὴν κοινὴν καὶ πάτριον ἐλευθερίαν.

And this was indeed casting Macedonians out of the Peloponnese, destroying tyrants, and establishing for each (region) the common and hereditary freedom.

Polyb. 3.63.4εἶναι δ᾽ ἐκ μὲν τοῦ νικᾶν ἆθλον οὐχ ἵππους καὶ σάγους, ἀλλὰ τὸ πάντωνἀνθρώπων γενέσθαι μακαριωτάτους (of verbal)

but indeed the prize from conquering being not horses and cloaks, but being most fortunate of all men

4 Regn. (4) 42ὁμοίως δὲ καὶ φιλίαν οὐκ ἄλλην ἢ τὸ ταὐτὰ βούλεσθαι καὶ διανοιεῖσθαι

and likewise also “friendship” (is) not other than desiring and intending these (things)

The comparative conjunction which connects the infinitives with the predicate nominative demands them to be subsequent predicates. Taking the article as subject would not make sense here. Furthermore, the accusative ending of “love” indicates it is a technical term, not a typical subject.

*Consult. (26) 3μὴ ἄρα τοῦτο ᾖ τὸ βουλύεσθαι, ὥστε ἐξ ὧν οἴδαμεν, ἐκ τούτων καὶ περὶὧν οὐδέπω ἴσμεν τεκμαίρεσθαι ἢ;

May not then this be “deliberating,” so as conjecturing from what we know, from these and concerning which we do not yet know?

3 Fort. (65) 7παρὰ γὰρ τῶν πλουσίων εἰς μὲν τοὺς συμβιοῦντας ἀνθρώπους ἡ ὕβρις ἐστὶ λοιδορία, προπηλακισμός, κατάγελως, τὸ πληγῆναι πολλάκις

For from the rich toward men who live with (them) indeed violence is reproach, contumely, derision, being struck multiple times.

Diatr. 1.4.7εἰ γὰρ τοῦτ᾽ ἔστιν, ὁμολογουμένως ἡ προκοπὴ οὐδὲν ἄλλο ἐστὶν ἢ τὸ πολλὰτῶν Χρυσίππου νοεῖν.

For if this is (virtue), admittedly, progress is nothing other than understanding many (things) of Chrysippus.

4.Apposition (Nominative)

a. 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.”

b. 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.

c. 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.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

4 Macc. 5:9 καὶ γὰρ ἀνόητον τοῦτο τὸ μὴ ἀπολαύειν τῶν χωρὶς ὀνείδους ἡδέων

for indeed this is foolish: not enjoying pleasures without reproach

Abr. 1.130ὅτι σκοπὸς εἷς καὶ τέλος ἕν ἐστιν αὐτοῖς, τὸ θεραπεύειν ἐμέ.

because one focus and one goal is to them: serving me

Mos. 2.17ἀλλ᾽ οὔπω τοῦτο θαυμαστόν, καίτοι μέγα καθ᾽ αὑτὸ δεόντως ἂν νομισθέν, τὸἐξ ἅπαντος τοῦ χρόνου πεφυλάχθαι τοὺς νόμους ἐν βεβαίῳ· ἀλλ᾽ ἐκεῖνοθαυμασιώτερον, ὡς ἔοικε, τὸ μὴ μόνον Ἰουδαίους ἀλλὰ καὶ τοὺς ἄλλους …ὡσιῶσθαι·

But this is no longer marvelous, although by itself being rightly considered a great things: the laws having been kept securely from all time; but that (is) more marvelous, as it should be: not only Jews but also others … being purified.

Decal. 1.172τέταρτον δὲ τὸ περὶ τοῦ μὴ ψευδομαρτυρεῖν ᾧ πολλὰ ἐμφέρεται, τὸ μὴἀπατᾶν, τὸ μὴ συκοφαντεῖν, τὸ μὴ τοῖς ἐξαμαρτάνουσι συμπράττειν, τὸ μὴποιεῖσθαι προκάλυμμα πίστιν ἀπιστίας

Now the fourth, which is about not bearing false witness (is) to which many things are brought in: not deceiving, not defrauding, not helping those who sin, not making faith a cloak for unfaithfulness

Spec. 1.317ἔστω γὰρ ἡμῖν μία οἰκειότης καὶ φιλίας ἓν σύμβολον ἡ πρὸς θεὸν ἀρέσκειακαὶ τὸ πάντα λέγειν τε καὶ πράττειν ὑπὲρ εὐσεβείας·

For one relationships and one symbol of friendship should be ours: the act of pleasing God and speaking and doing all things concerning godliness.

C. Ap. 2.230ἐφ ἣν δὴ τοῦτο μόνον τὸ καλὸν ἔργον καὶ φιλάνθρωπον ἅπαντα καὶ πράττεινκαὶ πάσχειν ὑπομένοντες τὸ κρατεῖν πάντων ἐφ᾽ οὓς ἂν στρατεύωσιν

and all these good and humane works (are) on account of this only: seizing all those against who they battle by enduring working and suffering

Greek:

Polyb. 3.4.9οὐ γὰρ δὴ τοῦτ᾽ εἶναι τέλος ὑποληπτέον ἐν πράγμασιν οὔτε τοῖς ἡγουμένοιςοὔτε τοῖς ἀποφαινομένοις ὑπὲρ τούτων, τὸ νικῆσαι καὶ ποιήσασθαι πάντας ὑφ᾽ἑαυτούς.

For neither to rulers or to those declaring about them, the goal in policies being this (is) not to be considered: conquering and making all (to be) under themselves.

Polyb. 4.79.3ταῦτα γὰρ ἐπίχειρα τότε τοῖς Αἰτωλῶν ἐγίνετο συμμάχοις, τὸ μὴ μόνον ἐντοῖς ἀναγκαιοτάτοις καιροῖς ἐγκαταλείπεσθαι προφανῶς, ἀλλὰ καὶ διαρπαγένταςἢ προδοθέντας τούτοις περιπίπτειν ὑπὸ τῶν συμμάχων

For these became wages then to the allies of the Aetolians: not only being deserted plainly at most necessary times, but also falling under the allies, being plundered or betrayed by them.

Geogr. 4.4.3τὸ δὲ περὶ τοὺς ἄνδρας καὶ τὰς γυναῖκας, τὸ διηλλάχθαι τὰ ἔργα ὑπεναντίως τοῖς παρ᾽ ἡμῖν, κοινὸν καὶ πρὸς ἄλλους συχνοὺς τῶν βαρβάρων ἐστί.

And the (thing) concerning the men and the women, the works being exchanged opposite to the ones among us, is even common to many others of the barbarians.

2 Regn. (2) 52ὡς τοῦτο μάλιστα σωτήριον καὶ νικηφόρον ἐν τοῖς κινδύνοις, τὸ μὴ ἀδεεῖςεἶναι τῶν ἡγεμόνων τοὺς στρατιώτας

so this especially (is) salvation and victorious in battles: soldiers not being fearful of those leading

Diatr. 1.16.1μὴ θαυμάζετ᾽ εἰ τοῖς μὲν ἄλλοις ζῴοις τὰ πρὸς τὸ σῶμα ἕτοιμα γέγονεν, οὐμόνον τροφαὶ καὶ πόμα, ἀλλὰ καὶ κοίτη καὶ τὸ μὴ δεῖσθαι ὑποδημάτων

Do not marvel if indeed the prepared (things) for the body have become to other creaures: not only food and drink, but also a bed and not needing sandals.

Diatr. 4.4.39μία ὁδὸς ἐπὶ εὔροιαν … ἀπόστασις τῶν ἀπροαιρέτων, τὸ μηδὲν ἴδιονἡγεῖσθαι, τὸ παραδοῦναι πάντα τῷ δαιμονίῳ

One way (is) to serenity: … departure from purposeless (things), considering nothing (as) one’s own, handing over all things to the divine power.

Ign. Eph. 3:2καὶ γὰρ Ἰησοῦς Χριστός τὸ ἀδιάκριτον ἡμῶν ζῆν τοῦ πατρὸς ἡ γνώμη

for even Jesus Christ, our unwavering living, (is) the purpose of the Father

Ign. Smyrn. 4:1δὲ ἔχει ἐξουσίαν Ἰησοῦς Χριστός τὸ ἀληθινὸν ἡμῶν ζῆν.

But Jesus Christ, our true living, has authority.

5.Apposition (Accusative)

a. Definition

b. Translation Aids

c. Clarification

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

Mos. 2.226οὗτοι … τὰ συμβεβηκότα διηγήσαντο, τὴν ὑπόγυον τῶν συγγενῶν τελευτήν, τὸ πένθος ᾧ κατ᾽ ἀναγκαῖον ἐχρήσαντο, τὸ μὴ δυνηθῆναι διὰ τοῦτο μετασχεῖν τῆςτῶν διαβατηρίων θυσίας.

These … related fully what had happened: the approaching death of relatives, …, not being able to share the sacrifice of the Passover because of this.

Spec. 1.264αὐτὸ τοῦθ᾽ ὑπολαμβάνων εἶναι τὴν ὠφελιμωτάτην κάθαρσιν, τὸ γνῶναί τιναἑαυτὸν

supposing this same thing to be the most beneficial cleansing: someone knowing himself

*Spec. 4.106βάσανον δὲ καὶ δοκιμασίαν τῶν δέκα ζῴων ὑπογράφεται κοινῇ κατὰ διττὰσημεῖα, τό τε διχηλεῖν καὶ τὸ μηρυκᾶσθαι·
Examination and also testing of the ten animals have been written publicly according to two signs: both dividing the hoof and chewing cud.

*Praem. 1.24πατὴρ γὰρ καὶ υἱὸς καὶ υἱωνὸς ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτὸ τέλος ἔσπευσαν τοῦ βίου τὸ τῷποιητῇ καὶ πατρὶ τῶν ὅλων εὐαρεστῆσαι,

For father and son and grandson hastened toward the same goal of life: pleasing the Maker and Father of all things

A.J. 4.324οἱ δὲ καὶ τοῦτ᾽ αὐτῷ χαρίζεσθαι κρίνοντες τὸ κατὰ βούλησιν ἀπελθεῖν αὐτῷτὴν ἰδίαν ἐφεῖναι

and they also judging to grant this to him: allowing him to depart according to his own will

A.J. 8.193καὶ τῆς εὐνοίας καὶ φιλοστοργίας ἠναγκάζετο παρέχειν αὐταῖς δεῖγμα τὸ βιοῦνὡς αὐταῖς πάτριον ἦν

and he was compelled to offer them a demonstration of favor and tenderness: living as was customary to them

Greek:

Polyb. 3.20.4πρὸς τοῖς ἄλλοις ἡ τύχη καὶ τοῦτο προσένειμε Ῥωμαίοις, τὸ φρονεῖν αὐτοὺςεὐθέως ἐκ γενετῆς.

Fortune with the others also assigned this to Romans: them thinking immediately from birth.

Polyb. 3.84.7τοῦτο δ᾽ ἐκ τῶν ἐθισμῶν αὐτὸ περὶ πλείστου ποιούμενοι, τὸ μὴ φεύγεινμηδὲ λείπειν τὰς τάξεις

and making this from (their) customs concerning greatest (duty): not fleeing nor leaving the ranks

Diatr. 3.13.6δεῖ τινα καὶ πρὸς τοῦτο παρασκευὴν ἔχειν τὸ δύνασθαι αὐτὸν ἑαυτῷ ἀρκεῖν

Someone also having preparation for this is necessary: him being able to satisfy himself.

Diatr. 3.24.56καὶ μηδὲν αὐτῶν σὸν ἡγημένος, μόνα δ᾽ ἐκεῖνα σά, τὸ κρῖναι καλῶς, τὸὑπολαβεῖν, τὸ ὁρμῆσαι, τὸ ὀρεχθῆναι, τὸ ἐκκλῖναι

and considering none of them (as) yours, but only those (as yours): judging well, thinking, urging, desiring, avoiding

Ench. 31.1καὶ σαυτὸν εἰς τοῦτο κατατεταχέναι, τὸ πείθεσθαι αὐτοῖς καὶ εἴκειν πᾶσι τοῖς γινομένοις καὶ ἀκολουθεῖν ἑκόντα ὡς ὑπὸ τῆς ἀρίστης γνώμης ἐπιτελουμένοις

and having appointed yourself to this: obeying them and yielding to everything which occurs and following voluntarily as being completed by the best understanding

6.Pendent Nominative/Accusative (Reference)

a. Definition

A regular nominative substantive can function as the logical rather than syntactical subject at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a sentence in which this subject is now replaced by a pronoun in the case required by the syntax.” The nominative form gives the focal topic of the sentence, though the actual main clause has a distinct subject. The nominative articular infinitive can also function in this way, in that is it grammatically independent from the remainder of the sentence. Similar to pendent nominatives, accusative substantives can also occur at the beginning of the sentence and offer the focal topic of the main clause. “The accusative is pendent or “hanging” in that it is introduced into the sentence as though it were going to be the direct object, but the sentence is completed in a syntactically awkward manner, leaving the accusative dangling.” Thus, both nominatives and accusative infinitives basically function for “Reference.”

b. Translation Aids

As with most other nominative uses of the articular infinitive, a gerund translation is often most appropriate to maintain the verbal and nominal aspects of the infinitive. To emphasize the logical connection, and not syntactical, one may insert “with reference to” or “as regards” before the infinitive.

c. Clarification

This function is distinct from all others in that it contains infinitives that are independent from the rest of the sentence. That is, all necessary components of the clause are filled by other forms, leaving these opening infinitives as infinitives of reference. I have labeled this category as “Pendent Nominative/Accusative” because of the similar functions for the respective simple cases. One would prefer for the two to be divided into their respective categories, but I found at least one text that hinders such a goal. Pendent nominatives are referenced in the main clause by a pronoun in a different case, and some of the following examples fit this description (e.g., Polyb. 5.11.3). Pendent accusatives introduce what should be the direct object of the clause, but the main clause inserts a pronoun in its place (e.g., Matt 21:42, λίθον ὅν ἀπεδοκίμασαν οἱοἰκοδομοῦντες, οὗτος ἐγενήθη εἰς κεφαλὴν γωνίας). Some examples below follow this pattern of an opening (presumably) accusative infinitive with a demonstrative functioning as the actual subject (e.g., Let. Aris. 1:225). The difficulty comes when the main clause begins with a demonstrative pronoun, but the pendent infinitive must also be nominative (e.g., 2 Tars. [34] 48). The compound subject demands for the infinitive to be nominative, yet it does not meet the requirement of a pronoun in a different case in the main clause. On the other hand, this function is distinct from regular epexegetical or reference infinitives (below) based on their syntactical independence, demonstrated by the presence of a pronoun that refers back to the infinitival clause. Therefore, I have combined the categories as referential substantives, while maintaining the grammatical label of pendent or hanging forms.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

Let. Aris. 1:225 τὸ δὲ κεχαριτῶσθαι πρὸς πάντας ἀνθρώπους καὶ καλὸν δῶρον εἰληφέναιπαρὰ θεοῦ τοῦτ᾽ ἔστι κράτιστον.

Now having shown favor to all men and having received a good gift from God, this is highest.

Pendent accusative.

Let. Aris. 1:248 τὸ δὲ ἐπιδεῖσθαι παιδία σωφροσύνης μετασχεῖν, θεοῦ δυνάμει τοῦτογίνεται.

Now requesting (that) children share discretion, this occurs by the power of God.

Pendent accusative.

Greek:

Polyb. 5.11.3τὸ μὲν γὰρ παραιρεῖσθαι τῶν πολεμίων καὶ καταφθείρειν φρούρια, λιμένας, πόλεις, ἄνδρας, ναῦς, καρπούς … ταῦτα μὲν ἀναγκάζουσιν οἱ τοῦ πολέμου νόμοι

For indeed, seizing and destroying forts of enemies, harbors, cities, men, ships, crops … indeed the laws of war compel these things.

Pendent nominative.

Dic. exercit. (18) 16καὶ μάτην ταραττομένοις ἀλύπως τἀληθὲς καὶ πιστῶς εἰπεῖν, καὶ τὸμὴ ῥᾳδίως πιστεύειν τοῖς ὑπερέχουσι, καὶ οἷς ἐξαπατῶσιν οἱ ὑπερέχοντεςκαὶ οἷς καταστρατηγοῦσι καὶ καταστρατηγοῦνται ἄνθρωποι, πάντα ταῦταἱκανῶς τὸ σύνταγμα περιέχει

And speaking truthfully and faithfully to those troubled in vain without grief, and not believing rashly those in authority, and by which (things) those in authority deceive and by which (things) men violate and are violated, the account covers these things sufficiently.

Pendent nominative.

Rhod. (31) 130Τὸ μέν οὖν ψευδῆ τὴν πόλιν δεικνύναι καὶ περὶ τὰς δωρεὰς ἄπιστον καὶ τὸτοὺς εὐργέτας ἀδικεῖν … κατὰ πάντα τὰ τοιαῦτα ἐπ’ ἴσης κοινὰἀμφοτέροις πρόσεστιν.

Then indeed, showing the city as false and unfaithful concerning the gifts and harming benefactors … according to all such (things) equally common (things) exist for both.

Pendent nominative.

2 Tars. (34) 48ἡ δὲ εὔνοια καὶ τὸ φαίνεσθαι διαφέροντας ἀρετῇ καὶ φιλανθωρπίᾳ, ταῦτάἐστιν ὄντως ἀγαθά

But goodwill and appearing as being superior in virtue and kindness, these (things) are truly good.

Pendent form that seems combined.

Diatr. 1.12.12τὸ δ᾽ ὡς ἔτυχέν με βούλεσθαι τὰ δ᾽ ὡς ἔτυχεν δόξαντα γίνεσθαι, τοῦτοκινδυνεύει οὐ μόνον οὐκ εἶναι καλόν, ἀλλὰ καὶ πάντων αἴσχιστον εἶναι.

But me desiring as it chanced the things seeming good as it chanced to occur, this risks not only not being good, but also being most shameful of all.

Pendent accusative.

Diatr. 2.11.25τὸ δ᾽ ἤδη χρῆσθαι τοῖς ἐγνωσμένοις τοῦτο τοῦ καλοῦ καὶ ἀγαθοῦ ἔργονἐστίν.

And already using the (things) being known, this is a work of a good and useful (man).

Pendent accusative.

7.Indirect Discourse

a. Definition

In reality this is a further subcategory of infinitives of direct object. These infinitives receive the action of the main verb, though the lexical range of the main verbs are now narrowed. In these cases, the infinitive provides the content of what is communicated or perceived.

b. Translation Aids

The infinitive can either be translated as a gerund or with the regular “to X.”

c. Clarification

The only distinction between these infinitives and those as direct object is the lexical value of the main verb. These verbs are typically described as those of communication or perception (e.g., ἐρωτάω, λέγω, παραγγέλλω, παρακαλέω). “Indirect discourse” indicates an original message or thought is being related to the reader in narrative form. “The infinitive in indirect discourse represents a finite verb in the direct discourse. The interpreter has to reconstruct the supposed direct discourse.” For example, if a father told his daughter, “I love you,” she could relate that information to someone else by saying, “Daddy said that he loved me” (or, in the infinitival form, “Daddy said to love me”). Thus, the direct message has been transformed into an indirect form. Examples are much more frequent with simple infinitives, but the following examples demonstrate this function occurs in other forms.

The reader must be careful to distinguish the infinitive of indirect discourse from a possible “subject infinitive” of the indirect discourse infinitive. For this category, the infinitive . Verbs of perception or communication without an entire subsequent clause merely have a direct object infinitive. Consider the following examples:

a. “He considered walking in the park.”

This sentence would contain a direct object clause.

b. “He considered walking in the park to be beneficial to his health.”

The infinitival form “to be” would be an infinitive of indirect discourse.

c. “He considered walking in the park beneficial to his health.”

For this project, I have labeled “walking in the park” as the direct object and “beneficial to his health” as the object complement, demanding a logical connector (e.g., “as”). Though equative verbs (e.g., εἰμί) are regularly elided from sentences, and it is possible that the main verb of the direct discourse was εἰμί, it is easier to label the syntax according to categories that fit the existent data (e.g., double accusative of object-complement) without inserting elided elements.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

Virt. 1.116πόρρωθεν ἀναδιδάσκων τὸ μὴ τοῖς ἀβουλήτοις τῶν ἐχθρανάντων ἐφήδεσθαι(of verbal)

teaching from a distance not to exalt over the misfortunes of those who hate (them)

C. Ap. 2.257μάλιστα δὲ Πλάτων μεμίμηται τὸν ἡμέτερον νομοθέτην κἀν τῷ μηδὲν οὕτωπαίδευμα προστάττειν τοῖς πολίταις ὡς τὸ πάντας ἀκριβῶς τοὺς νόμουςἐκμανθάνειν

but Plato has especially imitated our legislator even by commanding the citizens no such instruction as all learning the laws accurately

Greek:

Def. (45) 12ἐγὼ γάρ, ἄνδρες, τὸ μὲν βούλεσθαι τὴν πόλιν κοσμεῖν καῖ κατασκευάζειν μὴμόνον στοαῖς καῖ ὕδασιν … ὁμολογῶ.

For, men, indeed desiring to adorn the city and prepare (it) not only with colonnades and fountains … I confess.

Chrys. (61) 18Οὐκ ἀντιλέγω τὸ μὴ οὐ φρόνιμον εἶναι τὴν Χρυσηίδα, εἰ ταῦτα οὕτω γέγονε.

I do not deny Chryseïs not being prudent, if these things have occurred thus.

2 Clem. 19:1μισθὸν γὰρ αἰτῶ ὑμᾶς τὸ μετανοῆσαι ἐξ ὅλης καρδίας

for I ask you to repent from the whole heart as a reward

The verb has a person-thing double accusative, but the infinitive is the content of the “demand.”

8.Epexegetical/Reference

a. 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.

b. 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.

c. 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.

d. Clear Examples

Greek:

P. Oxy. 743.2.27–30ἐγὼ αὐτῷ διαστολὰς δεδώκειν τὸ βαδίσαι εἰς Τακόνα

I had given him orders (with reference to) traveling to Takona

Borsyth. (36) 43τὸ δὴ μετὰ τοῦτο αἰσχύνομαι φράζειν τῶν ἵππων πέρι καὶ τῆς ἡνιοχήσεως

then after this I am ashamed (with reference to) declaring of the horses and concerning the chariot driving

The main verb is intransitive in the vast majority of cases. Otherwise, this would be direct object.

Apam. (41) 4Τὸ μέν οὖν φιλεῖν τὴν πατρίδα μάλιστα πάντων οὐκ ἔξαρνός εἰμι.

Then indeed (with reference to) living homeland, I am not in denial especially of all.

Hab. (72) 16Καὶ ἡμῶν ἕκαστος τὴν μὲν στολὴν ἔχει τὴν Σωκράτους καὶ Διογένους, τὸ δὲ φρονεῖν πολλοῦ δέομεν ὅμοιοι εἶναι τοῖς ἀνδράσιν ἐκείνοις

And each of us indeed has the robe of Socrates and Diogenes, but (with reference to) thinking we are needing much to be like those men.

9.Double Accusative (Complement)

a. Definition

“An object-complement double accusative is a construction in which one accusative substantive is the direct object of the verb and the other accusative (either noun, adjective, participle, or infinitive) complements the object in that it predicates something about it.” Wallace continues, “The direct object usually combines with the verb to form a new verbal idea that has another accusative (the complement) as its object.”

b. Translation Aids

There is no explicit linking verbal between the direct object and complement, but one can insert an equivalent to make the connection clear. Thus, “to be” or “as” are typical ways to connect the direct object to the complement.

c. Clarification

In essence, object-complement infinitives would be predicate accusatives if a linking verbal (either infinitive or participle) were in the sentence. Without the explicit verbal, the articular infinitive is merely complementary. There are two types of double accusatives: person-thing and object-complement. All the following examples belong to the latter category. One may have difficulty determining which accusative form is the direct object. Wallace provides the same pecking order as for determining which nominative is the subject and the predicate nominative. Pronouns, proper names, and articular forms are the direct object. Since all the following infinitives take the article, the only forms that can be direct objects are pronouns. Therefore, in these sentences the pronoun is the accusative, and the articular infinitive complements it.

d. Clear Examples

Jewish:

A.J. 4.187τήν τ᾽ ἐλευθερίαν ἡγεῖσθε μὴ τὸ προσαγανακτεῖν οἷς ἂν ὑμᾶς οἱ ἡγεμόνεςπράττειν ἀξιῶσι

and you do not consider freedom as opposing those things which governors consider worthy for you to practice

The infinitive could be the direct object, but the pecking order does not help for both are articular. At this point, word order is perhaps the best guide, making this the complement.

e. 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:

*Abr. 1.129τὰ δὲ ἆθλα τοῖς μὲν ἐμὲ τιμῶσι δι᾽ ἐμὲ κείσεται φίλια, τοῖς δὲ διὰ τὰς χρείαςφίλια μὲν οὔ, τὸ δὲ μὴ ἀλλοτρίοις νομίζεσθαι·

Now the prizes for those who honor me for my sake will be laid up (as) friendship, but for those (who honor me) because of obligations (the prizes are not laid up as) friendship, but (as) not being considered belonging to strangers;

10.Appearance/ “So It Seems”

a. 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.

b. Translation Aids

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

c. 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.

d. Clear Examples

Greek:

Ign. Smyrn. 4:2εἰ γὰρ τὸ δοκεῖν ταῦτα ἐπράχθη ὑπὸ τοῦ κυρίου ἡμῶν κἀγὼ τὸ δοκεῖνδέδεμαι.

For if these things were practiced by our Lord “in appearance only,” I also have been bound “in appearance only.”

This perhaps belongs under the broader category of “reference,” but these are divided in later sections, so they are here as well.

11.Apposition (Genitive)

a. Definition

b. Translation Aids

c. Clarification

d. 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:

Diatr. 4.4.32τίς γὰρ ἄλλη μείζων ταύτης ζημία τῷ ἀπαιδεύτῳ καὶ ἀπειθοῦντι τοῖς θείοιςδιατάγμασιν ἢ τὸ λυπεῖσθαι, τὸ πενθεῖν, τὸ φθονεῖν, ἁπλῶς τὸ ἀτυχεῖν καὶδυστυχεῖν;

For what other penalty greater than this (is) to the (one) untrained and disobedient to divine ordinances than mourning, grieving, envying, plainly failing and being unfortunate?

The nominative articles probably precede regular subject infinitives, based on the comparative conjunction ἤ. However, the comparative adjective and genitive demonstrative already contained the comparative nuance. The weeping and mourning would not take place of “punishment,” but “this.”

Friday, December 23, 2022

Nominative Articular Infinitives (Extrabiblical)

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