[B-Greek] Help with 'Imperfect' Particple required (Mt 2:7)

Martin Wells Manilius at blueyonder.co.uk
Fri Jan 20 16:52:28 EST 2006


Dear B-Greek,

I'm in need of some clarification re the tense of the present middle
participle "fainomenou" as used in Mt 2:7. 

I know that participles do not exist in imperfect form and the present is
used to convey imperfect past time - with context (tense of main verb)
providing the indication of time - but this word has been classed as
corresponding to 'perfect' (Max and Mary) AND 'imperfect' (by Gustav Teres
who argues for the Star being visible on a nightly basis ever since its
rising).

Is this tense plain old simple 'present' or perfect or imperfect? 

As the main verb - "akribws" - is aorist active indicative singular it would
be in contrast to the imperfect (on going action as it unfolds). So if I
conclude that "fainomenou" cannot be imperfect in form in this instance,
would I be right?

All the Best,


Martin Wells
PhD student (as a hobby)
Beginner Greek level
Bristol, UK




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