New Testament Greek

Μηδὲν κατὰ ἐριθείαν ἢ κενοδοξίαν, ἀλλὰ τῇ ταπεινοφροσύνῃ ἀλλήλους ἡγούμενοι ὑπερέχοντας ἑαυτῶν (Philippians 2:3)

Do nothing from selfish ambition or vain glory, but in humility considering one another as surpassing yourselves.

Negative Exhortation: μηδὲν κατὰ ἐριθείαν ἢ κενοδοξίαν μηδὲν: Accusative singular neuter of μηδείς, functioning adverbially — “nothing.” This modifies the understood verb (from v.2), likely “do” or “think.” κατὰ: Preposition with accusative — “according to,” expressing motivation or manner. ἐριθείαν: Accusative singular feminine — “selfish ambition,” “factiousness,” often connoting rivalry or party spirit. ἢ: Disjunctive conjunction — “or.” κενοδοξίαν: Accusative singular feminine — “vain glory,” “empty pride,” combining κενός (“empty”) and δόξα (“glory”).… Learn Koine Greek

Ἀναγκαῖον δὲ ἡγησάμην Ἐπαφρόδιτον τὸν ἀδελφὸν καὶ συνεργὸν καὶ συστρατιώτην μου, ὑμῶν δὲ ἀπόστολον καὶ λειτουργὸν τῆς χρείας μου, πέμψαι πρὸς ὑμᾶς, (Philippians 2:25)

But I considered it necessary to send Epaphroditus to you—my brother and fellow worker and fellow soldier, and your messenger and minister to my need.

Double Accusative with Infinitive of Intent

This verse provides a rich example of Greek syntax involving a double accusative construction with a complementary infinitive, along with appositional phrases and possessive genitives. The grammar reflects Paul’s personal affection and theological appreciation for Epaphroditus.

Main Verb: ἡγησάμην

ἡγησάμην is aorist middle indicative, 1st person singular, from ἡγέομαι (“I consider, I regard”).… Learn Koine Greek