Brief Overview of ἀριστερός (G710: aristerós)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aristerós

Root Words:

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• ἀριστερός (aristerós): This adjective is derived from the Greek word for “left” (as in direction). The term ἀριστερός is related to the word ἀριστερά (aristerá), meaning “left hand” or “left side.”

Primary Meanings:

• Left-Handed: Refers to something or someone associated with the left side or left hand.
• Left Side: Can describe the left side of a body, object, or position.
• Unlucky or Inauspicious (in some contexts): In ancient Greek culture, the left side was sometimes considered less favorable compared to the right.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἀριστερός as “left” in a literal sense, referring to the left side or hand. It emphasizes its use in a straightforward manner to describe orientation or positioning. BDAG also notes that in some cultural contexts, the left side could carry negative connotations.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἀριστερός as meaning “left” or “left-handed,” consistent with its primary use in describing direction or side. Thayer’s also mentions the cultural implications where the left side was often viewed as less favorable.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary concurs with the definition of ἀριστερός as “left,” focusing on its use to denote the left side or hand. It reflects the term’s neutral to mildly negative connotations in certain contexts.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon provides the meaning of ἀριστερός as “left” or “left-handed,” with a note on its usage in describing the left side of objects or people.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s identifies ἀριστερός as “left,” highlighting its role in describing orientation or side, without extensive cultural connotations.

Bible Verses:

• Matthew 25:33 (KJV): “And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left.”
• Here, ἀριστερός is used to describe the left side, contrasting with the right.
• Acts 27:29 (KJV): “Then fearing lest we should have fallen upon rocks, they cast four anchors out of the stern, and wished for the day.”
• ἀριστερός is used to describe a direction or side in the context of nautical navigation.

3. Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

In classic Greek literature, ἀριστερός is used to denote the left side or hand. Examples include:

• Homer’s “Iliad”: The term is used to describe the orientation of characters or objects, reflecting the literal meaning of left.
• Homer’s “Odyssey”: Similar usage is seen in describing directions or sides, emphasizing the practical application of the term.
• Plato’s Dialogues: Although not always directly cited, the concept of “left” is discussed in terms of direction and position, aligning with the meaning of ἀριστερός.

4. Summary:

The term ἀριστερός (G710: aristerós) is a Greek adjective meaning “left,” used to describe orientation or side. BDAG and other lexicons emphasize its primary use in referring to the left side or hand. While it generally denotes direction or position, cultural connotations may influence its interpretation, with the left side sometimes viewed as less favorable. Classic Greek literature provides examples of its use in practical and directional contexts, reinforcing its basic meaning and application.