Brief Overview of δέκατος (G1182: dékatos)

Dékatos (pronounced DEH-kah-tos) is a Greek adjective derived from the root δέκα (déka), which means “ten.” The term functions primarily as an ordinal adjective and describes something that is in the “tenth” position or part. It is related to the idea of the fraction or portion that represents one out of ten equal parts.

Primary Meanings:

• Tenth: The principal meaning of δέκατος is “tenth,” denoting the ordinal position of being number ten in a sequence or list.
• Tithing: In some contexts, it refers to a tithe or a tenth part, particularly in religious or financial contexts where a tenth part is given or set aside.

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Scripture References

1. Matthew 20:16: “So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few are chosen.” Here, δέκατος (dékatos) is implied in the context of the parable of the laborers, where it reflects the ordering and ranking of positions, though it is not explicitly used in this verse.
2. Luke 13:32: “And he said to them, ‘Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.’” The term δέκατος is not directly used in this verse but is related to the concept of sequencing and timing in the broader context of biblical narratives.
3. Revelation 21:20: “The twelfth was amethyst.” Although δέκατος itself does not appear in this verse, the term’s usage in relation to ordinal positions is reflected in the descriptions of the foundations of the New Jerusalem.

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Early Christian Literature) defines δέκατος as “tenth,” referring to the ordinal number that signifies a position in a sequence. BDAG emphasizes its use in describing the tenth item in a series, especially in lists or rankings. The term is applied in both literal and figurative contexts, such as the division of items or the ordering of elements.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes δέκατος as an ordinal adjective meaning “tenth,” used to indicate the position of something as number ten in a series. It highlights its use in both practical and symbolic contexts, particularly in ancient texts and religious practices.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary reinforces this definition by noting that δέκατος refers to the tenth in a sequence. It is used to describe the position or rank of something, such as a tenth part in financial or ritual contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a straightforward definition of δέκατος as “tenth,” focusing on its application as an ordinal number.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics”: Aristotle discusses various rankings and positions in ethical contexts, including numerical positions. Though δέκατος is not used explicitly, the concept of ordinal positions is central to his philosophical discussions.
2. Plato’s “Republic”: Plato addresses various forms of order and ranking in his dialogues. While δέκατος itself is not mentioned, the principles of numerical order and sequence are foundational to his arguments about justice and society.
3. Homer’s “Iliad”: In the epic, Homer often refers to numerical and ordinal positions to describe ranks and orders among warriors and gods. Although δέκατος is not explicitly used, the concept of ordering and ranking is prevalent in the narrative.

Summary

Dékatos (G1182) is an adjective meaning “tenth,” derived from the Greek word δέκα (ten). It signifies the ordinal position of being number ten in a sequence or list. In biblical texts and classical literature, it is used to denote ranking, ordering, or the fractional concept of a tenth part. While the term does not appear extensively in specific scriptural verses, its concept is integral to discussions of order and sequence. Classical Greek literature also reflects the idea of numerical ranking and sequence, though δέκατος itself may not be explicitly cited. Overall, δέκατος plays a role in describing positions and divisions within various contexts.