Tag Archives: ἐκκλησία

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