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Category Archives: Synonyms
Synonyms: Holy Devotion or Divine Curse? ἀνάθημα and ἀνάθεμα in the Greek New Testament
The Greek words ἀνάθημα and ἀνάθεμα are among the most striking examples of near-homographs with completely different meanings in the New Testament. Though both stem from the root ἀνατίθημι (“to set up, to dedicate”), their divergence in usage and theological weight is profound. One refers to what is dedicated to God, the other to what is devoted for destruction. This article explores the lexical history, scriptural usage, and spiritual significance of these two potent terms.
Lexical Forms and Etymological Roots ἀνάθημα – From ἀνατίθημι (“to set up”), this form denotes something offered or dedicated to a deity, often placed in a temple as a votive offering.… Learn Koine GreekSynonyms: Corrective Language in the Greek New Testament: ἐπιτιμάω and ἐλέγχω
The Greek New Testament uses various terms to express rebuke, correction, conviction, and exposure of wrongdoing. Among these, ἐπιτιμάω and ἐλέγχω emerge as two major verbs associated with verbal discipline or moral judgment. While both can involve confrontation, they differ in tone, function, and theological nuance. This study also incorporates the related noun forms αἰτία and ἔλεγχος, which contribute to the semantic field of accusation, evidence, and moral proof.
Lexical Definitions and Etymology ἐπιτιμάω – A compound of ἐπί (“upon”) and τιμάω (“to value, honor”), but in Koine usage it evolved to mean “to rebuke,” “to censure,” or “to command sternly.”… Learn Koine GreekSynonyms: The Temple in Two Dimensions: ἱερόν and ναός in the Greek New Testament
In the Greek New Testament, the terms ἱερόν and ναός both refer to the “temple,” yet they carry significantly different nuances and theological implications. Both terms are rooted in Greek religious vocabulary, yet when employed by New Testament writers—especially in the Gospels and Pauline Epistles—their meanings are sharpened to reflect both Jewish worship and Christian theology. This article explores their etymology, usage, and theological weight, distinguishing between the physical temple complex and the innermost dwelling place of God.
Lexical Definitions and Origins ἱερόν – A neuter noun from ἱερός (“sacred, holy”). It refers broadly to the sacred precincts or temple complex, including all buildings, courts, and outer areas surrounding the sanctuary in Jerusalem.… Learn Koine GreekSynonyms: Divine Essence and Nature in the Greek New Testament: θεότης and θειότης
Among the many nuanced terms used to describe the divine in the Greek New Testament, θεότης and θειότης stand out for their subtle distinctions and theological depth. Both derive from the root θεός (“God”), yet their forms and usages convey distinct shades of meaning concerning God’s nature and attributes. This article investigates the semantic range, contextual usage, and theological implications of these two rare but potent terms.
Lexical Definitions and Morphological Distinctions θεότης (theotēs) – A feminine noun derived directly from θεός, typically translated as “Godhead” or “Deity.” It signifies the full, essential nature of God. θειότης (theiotēs) – Also a feminine noun, formed from the adjective θεῖος (“divine”).… Learn Koine GreekIntroduction to the Synonyms: ἐκκλησία, συναγωγή, πανήγυρις
In the Greek New Testament, the words ἐκκλησία (ekklēsia), συναγωγή (synagōgē), and πανήγυρις (panēgyris) appear with overlapping connotations of gathering, assembly, and community. However, they diverge significantly in origin, usage, and theological weight. This article explores their meanings, usage, and nuances in the New Testament, their Septuagintal background, and how early Christian identity was shaped through the adoption or avoidance of these terms.
Lexical Definitions and Etymology ἐκκλησία – Derived from the verb ἐκκαλέω, “to call out,” originally referring to a summoned political assembly in Greek city-states. In the New Testament, it evolves into the primary term for the Christian church, both local and universal.… Learn Koine Greek