Brief Overview of βολή (G1000: bolē)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word “βολή” (bolē) is transliterated as “bo-LAY.” This noun derives from the verb “βάλλω” (ballō), which means “to throw” or “to cast.” The primary meaning of “βολή” is “a throw” or “a casting.” It can also refer to the thing thrown, such as a missile or dart, or metaphorically to a sudden or striking action or movement.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:

In the lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, Vine’s, LSJ, and Strong’s exhaustive concordance, “βολή” is consistently defined as a throw or a casting. BDAG elaborates on the term’s use in both literal and metaphorical contexts, emphasizing its connection to suddenness or impact. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon also highlights the term’s application in describing the act of throwing or the object that is thrown.

The word “βολή” itself does not appear frequently in the New Testament. However, its root verb “βάλλω” is widely used in various contexts, ranging from the literal act of throwing to metaphorical uses, such as casting lots or casting out demons. The concept of a “throw” or “casting” implied by “βολή” carries over into these broader applications, illustrating the force and intent behind actions described in the New Testament.

Classical Greek Usage:

In classical Greek literature, “βολή” is frequently used in the context of warfare, sports, and other activities involving throwing or casting objects. For example, in the Iliad by Homer, “βολή” is often used to describe the throw of a spear or the cast of a stone in battle. The term captures both the physical act of throwing and the outcome or impact of that action.

Another example can be found in the works of Pindar, where “βολή” is used metaphorically to describe the sudden and powerful impact of a statement or a deed, much like the strike of a thrown weapon. In Aristotle’s Rhetoric, the term is also employed to describe a sudden and forceful argument or rhetorical strike, highlighting its metaphorical use beyond physical throwing.

These examples demonstrate the versatility of “βολή” in classical Greek, where it could describe both literal and figurative actions involving sudden impact or force.

Summary:

The Greek word “βολή” (bolē), meaning “a throw” or “a casting,” is derived from the verb “βάλλω” (ballō), which means “to throw.” This word captures the act of throwing or the object being thrown and can be used both literally and metaphorically. While “βολή” itself is not frequently found in the New Testament, its root verb “βάλλω” appears in various contexts, illustrating the force and intent behind actions. Lexicons such as BDAG and Thayer’s provide insights into its meanings, emphasizing its use in contexts involving suddenness or impact. In classical Greek literature, “βολή” is often associated with warfare, sports, and rhetorical force, highlighting its broad applicability in describing actions of throwing or striking. Overall, “βολή” serves as a vivid term for capturing the essence of sudden and impactful actions, whether in a physical or metaphorical sense.