Brief Overview of βοηθός (G998: boēthós)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word “βοηθός” (boēthós) is transliterated as “bo-AY-thos.” This noun is derived from the verb “βοηθέω” (boēthéō), which means “to help” or “to come to aid.” The word “βοηθός” itself primarily means “helper” or “one who provides assistance.” It is often used to describe someone who comes to another’s aid, particularly in times of need or distress.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:

In examining various lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vine’s, LSJ, and Strong’s exhaustive concordance, “βοηθός” is consistently defined as a “helper” or “aid.” BDAG emphasizes that this term can imply both human and divine assistance, depending on the context. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon adds that the word often carries the nuance of immediate or urgent assistance, suggesting a helper who arrives just in time to provide the necessary aid.

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In the New Testament, “βοηθός” is found in Hebrews 13:6, where it refers to God as the ultimate helper: “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” This verse highlights the divine aspect of the term, underscoring God’s role as a reliable and ever-present helper in the lives of believers.

Classical Greek Usage:

In classical Greek literature, “βοηθός” is often used in the context of warfare and conflict, where it refers to allies or reinforcements who provide crucial support in battle. For example, in Homer’s Iliad (9.225), the word is used to describe the Myrmidons as helpers who assist Achilles in the Trojan War. Another classical example is found in Xenophon’s Anabasis (3.5.7), where “βοηθός” describes soldiers coming to the aid of their comrades during a retreat. Additionally, in the works of Euripides, “βοηθός” is used to describe the gods as helpers who intervene in human affairs, providing divine assistance in moments of crisis.

These classical examples illustrate the broad applicability of the term in both military and religious contexts, emphasizing the concept of reliable assistance, whether from humans or deities.

Summary:

The Greek word “βοηθός” (boēthós) is a rich and multifaceted term that primarily denotes a helper or someone who provides aid, often in times of need. Rooted in the verb “βοηθέω” (boēthéō), meaning “to help,” this noun carries connotations of both human and divine assistance. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s affirm this meaning, highlighting the term’s usage in both urgent and general contexts. In the New Testament, “βοηθός” is notably used in Hebrews 13:6 to describe God as the ultimate helper, offering comfort and support to believers. Classical Greek literature further expands on this concept, using “βοηθός” to describe allies in battle and divine intervention. Overall, “βοηθός” encapsulates the idea of a dependable and timely helper, whether in the realm of the human or the divine.