Brief Overview of δότης (G1395: dótēs)

• δότης (dótēs) [DOH-tace]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek verb δίδωμι (dídōmi), meaning “to give.” The root emphasizes the role of the giver.
• Part of Speech: Noun, masculine.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

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• Giver: The primary meaning of δότης (dótēs) is “giver,” emphasizing the one who bestows, donates, or grants something. It highlights the active role of providing or offering something to another.
• Contributor or Donor: In some contexts, δότης (dótēs) can refer to a contributor or donor, particularly in a formal or charitable context.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Composition: The word δότης (dótēs) is a masculine noun derived from the verb δίδωμι (dídōmi), meaning “to give.” The ending “-της” is a common Greek suffix used to form agent nouns, indicating the person who performs the action. In this case, δότης (dótēs) directly refers to the person who gives.
• Usage in Context: The term δότης (dótēs) can be found in contexts that highlight the nature of the giver, often used to emphasize the generosity, intention, or responsibility of the person bestowing the gift.

Lexicon Insights:

• BDAG: BDAG identifies δότης (dótēs) as a noun that specifically refers to someone who gives, often in a generous or benevolent manner. The word can be found in contexts where the emphasis is on the character or nature of the giver.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s emphasizes the use of δότης (dótēs) in the New Testament as someone who provides gifts, often in a divine context, where God is portrayed as the ultimate giver.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ includes δότης (dótēs) in both secular and religious contexts, often used to describe donors or benefactors in ancient Greek society.
• Scripture References:
• James 1:5: “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
• Acts 17:25: “Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed anything, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things.”

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:

• Homer, Odyssey: Although δότης (dótēs) may not be the exact term used, the concept of a giver is prevalent, especially in the context of hospitality and offerings to the gods.
• Herodotus, Histories: Herodotus uses terms akin to δότης (dótēs) when describing kings or leaders who provide for their people or allies, emphasizing the role of leadership in giving.
• Plato, Symposium: In dialogues such as the Symposium, the act of giving, particularly in the form of love, knowledge, or even material gifts, is explored, and the giver is often a central figure in these discussions.

Summary of δότης (G1395: dótēs)

The Greek word δότης (dótēs), transliterated as dótēs and pronounced [DOH-tace], primarily means “giver” or “donor.” Derived from the verb dídōmi, meaning “to give,” the word emphasizes the person who bestows or grants something, focusing on the role and character of the giver. In the New Testament, dótēs often refers to God as the ultimate giver, highlighting His generosity and provision for humanity. The term is also used in secular contexts to describe benefactors or those who contribute to the well-being of others. Whether referring to a divine giver, as seen in James 1:5, or a human donor, as mentioned in Acts 17:25, dótēs conveys the importance and responsibility of giving. In classical Greek literature, while the exact word may not always appear, the concept of a giver remains significant, particularly in the context of hospitality, leadership, and philosophical discussions on the nature of giving and receiving.