Brief Overview of γνώμη (G1106: gnōmē)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γνώμη (transliterated as gnōmē and pronounced as “gnaw-may”) is a noun that primarily means “opinion,” “judgment,” or “purpose.” It is derived from the root word γινώσκω (ginōskō), meaning “to know” or “to recognize.” This connection to knowledge and understanding highlights the word’s association with an individual’s reasoned opinion or judgment. Gnōmē can also refer to a person’s intention or will, particularly in the context of decision-making or forming a resolution.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
According to various lexicons, including BDAG (Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich), Thayer’s, Vines, and LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones), γνώμη is understood as an opinion, judgment, or decision. BDAG provides a nuanced understanding of the word, emphasizing its use in contexts where a person’s considered judgment or intention is expressed. Thayer’s Lexicon adds that the term can denote a deliberate purpose or resolve, often used in the context of a group decision or collective judgment.

In the New Testament, gnōmē appears in several passages, each reflecting its meaning as judgment or opinion. For example, in 1 Corinthians 1:10, Paul urges the Corinthians to be “united in the same mind and the same judgment” (gnōmē), highlighting the importance of unity in their opinions and decisions. In Philemon 1:14, Paul writes about not wanting to do anything without the consent (gnōmē) of Philemon, indicating a respect for his judgment and decision-making. These instances show the word’s use in expressing both individual and collective judgments within the early Christian communities.

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Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γνώμη was widely used to express the concept of opinion, judgment, or purpose. For example, in the works of Herodotus, gnōmē is often used to describe the opinions or decisions of individuals and groups, reflecting the democratic and philosophical discourses of the time. Thucydides uses the word to convey the decisions made by leaders or the collective judgment of an assembly. In the plays of Sophocles, gnōmē frequently appears in dialogues where characters express their personal judgments or the outcomes of deliberation. These examples demonstrate that gnōmē was a key term in articulating reasoned opinions and decisions in both political and personal contexts.

Summary:
The Greek word γνώμη (G1106: gnōmē) is a significant term in the New Testament and classical Greek literature, conveying meanings related to judgment, opinion, and purpose. Derived from the verb ginōskō (“to know”), gnōmē encompasses both individual and collective judgments, as seen in its New Testament usage in passages like 1 Corinthians 1:10 and Philemon 1:14. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s emphasize the word’s connection to reasoned decision-making and intention, highlighting its importance in contexts where discernment and unity of thought are crucial. In classical literature, gnōmē was a common term used by authors like Herodotus, Thucydides, and Sophocles to express opinions and judgments, demonstrating its broad application in Greek discourse. Thus, gnōmē is a word that encapsulates the process of forming judgments and decisions, both in personal reflection and collective deliberation.