Brief Overview of Δακτύλιος (G1146: Daktylios)

Daktylios (pronounced dak-TEE-lee-os, δακτύλιος) is a Greek noun found under Strong’s Concordance number G1146. The word Daktylios is derived from the root δάκτυλος (daktylos), which means “finger.” Daktylios specifically refers to a “ring,” particularly one worn on the finger. In ancient times, rings were significant objects often used as symbols of authority, identity, or social status. They were sometimes used as signet rings to seal documents or to demonstrate a person’s power and influence.

The primary meaning of Daktylios is “ring.” It generally refers to a finger ring, which could be purely ornamental or serve a more functional purpose, such as a signet ring used for sealing documents. Rings held a significant place in ancient society, symbolizing authority, wealth, and familial bonds. In the New Testament, Daktylios is used in contexts that highlight the importance of such symbols, particularly in terms of restoring honor and status.

Scripture References

1. Luke 15:22: “But the father said to his servants, ‘Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him, and put a ring (δακτύλιον, daktylion) on his hand, and shoes on his feet.’” In this parable, the prodigal son’s father places a ring on his son’s finger, symbolizing the son’s restored status in the family.
2. James 2:2: “For if a man wearing a gold ring (δακτυλίου, daktyliou) and fine clothing comes into your assembly, and a poor man in shabby clothing also comes in.” Here, the ring is a symbol of wealth and social status, highlighting the contrast between the rich and the poor.
3. Esther 8:8 (LXX): “Write also concerning the Jews, as it pleases you, in the king’s name, and seal it with the king’s ring (δακτυλίῳ, daktyliō); for an edict written in the king’s name and sealed with the king’s ring cannot be revoked.” This verse underscores the authority vested in a signet ring, used to seal official decrees.

Detailed Description from Lexicons

In BDAG (Bauer, Danker, Arndt, and Gingrich), Daktylios is defined as “ring,” with a focus on its use as a signet ring or a symbol of authority. BDAG highlights that Daktylios is used in contexts where the ring represents more than just an ornament but carries significant symbolic weight. In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:22), the father’s gift of a ring signifies the restoration of the son’s position within the family, while in James 2:2, the ring signifies wealth and social status.

Thayer’s Lexicon also defines Daktylios as “a ring,” particularly emphasizing its use as a signet ring. Thayer’s points out that rings were commonly used to seal documents and that they often symbolized power and authority. Thayer’s also notes the significance of Daktylios in biblical contexts, where it often represents a tangible sign of honor or authority.

The LSJ (Liddell, Scott, Jones) lexicon describes Daktylios as “a ring,” noting its usage in both classical and biblical texts. The LSJ emphasizes the role of rings in ancient Greek society, where they were often used to signify status or to perform practical functions such as sealing letters. In classical literature, rings were frequently mentioned in contexts involving wealth, power, and social distinction.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance lists Daktylios as “a ring,” highlighting its literal meaning but also acknowledging the broader symbolic implications in the Bible. The concordance notes the use of Daktylios in key passages where the ring serves as a marker of identity, status, or authority.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

In classical Greek literature, Daktylios is commonly used to describe rings, often in contexts that emphasize their symbolic or practical importance.

1. Homer in the “Iliad” and “Odyssey” refers to rings as valuable objects, often used by the wealthy and powerful. These rings could symbolize honor, wealth, or serve as a means of identification.
2. Herodotus mentions the use of signet rings in his “Histories,” describing how such rings were used to seal documents, thereby ensuring their authenticity and demonstrating the authority of the bearer.
3. Plato in his dialogues, such as “The Republic,” discusses the symbolic meanings of rings, particularly the ring of Gyges, which grants its wearer the power of invisibility. This story reflects the broader cultural significance of rings as objects that confer power or authority upon their owners.

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Summary

Daktylios (pronounced dak-TEE-lee-os, δακτύλιος) is a Greek noun meaning “ring,” derived from δάκτυλος (daktylos, meaning “finger”). The word primarily refers to a finger ring, which could be used for decorative purposes or serve a more functional role, such as a signet ring used for sealing documents. In the New Testament and other biblical texts, Daktylios is often associated with authority, wealth, and social status, symbolizing the wearer’s power or restored honor. Lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and LSJ emphasize the significance of Daktylios in both literal and symbolic contexts, highlighting its importance in ancient Greek and Jewish culture. In classical Greek literature, Daktylios is frequently mentioned in contexts involving wealth, power, and social distinction, underscoring the ring’s role as a symbol of authority and status. The term’s usage in both biblical and classical texts reflects the enduring cultural significance of rings as markers of identity, power, and honor.