Brief Overview of δεξιολάβος (G1187: dexiolábos)

Dexiolábos (pronounced dex-ee-o-LAH-bos) is a Greek noun that combines two elements: δεξιός (dexiós), meaning “right” or “right hand,” and λαμβάνω (lambánō), meaning “to take” or “to seize.” The word δεξιολάβος refers to someone who takes or seizes with the right hand, specifically a spearman or a soldier armed with a spear who typically uses their right hand for combat. In ancient military contexts, this term would describe a specific type of soldier skilled in the use of the spear or javelin, often serving as an escort or guard.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Words: δεξιός (dexiós) meaning “right” or “right hand,” and λαμβάνω (lambánō) meaning “to take” or “to seize.”
• Part of Speech: Noun, Masculine.

Save with code – FOG20

Primary Meanings:

• Spearman: The most direct meaning of δεξιολάβος is a “spearman,” referring to a soldier who is skilled in using a spear, particularly with the right hand.
• Right-hand Attendant: By extension, the term can also mean an attendant or guard, someone who stands ready to defend or support, typically positioned on the right side.

Scripture References

Dexiolábos does not appear directly in the canonical New Testament texts. However, it can be referenced in the context of ancient military descriptions found in non-biblical Greek literature or in the Septuagint (the Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures).

Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δεξιολάβος as a “spearman” or “right-hand man,” highlighting its use to describe soldiers or attendants who are responsible for close combat, particularly with a spear. The lexicon emphasizes the role of such soldiers in ancient warfare, where being on the right side often meant being in a position of defense or aggression.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon confirms that δεξιολάβος refers to a soldier who is a “spearman,” particularly one who is skilled with the right hand. Thayer’s notes that this term would be used to describe a specific type of soldier in ancient Greek military formations, where the right-hand position was crucial.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary does not explicitly cover δεξιολάβος but supports the interpretation provided by other lexicons, noting the importance of understanding ancient military terms in their historical and cultural contexts.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a concise definition of δεξιολάβος as a “spearman” or a “soldier armed with a spear.” The concordance focuses on the literal and direct meaning of the term in describing an ancient warrior.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Xenophon’s “Anabasis”: In this work, Xenophon describes various soldiers and their roles within the army. The term δεξιολάβος would be used to describe spearmen who played a crucial role in protecting the flanks of the army.
2. Thucydides’ “History of the Peloponnesian War”: Thucydides details the composition of armies and the roles of different soldiers. Δεξιολάβος would apply to those soldiers who carried spears and were responsible for frontline combat, often on the right side of a phalanx.
3. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus mentions various types of soldiers in his descriptions of battles. Although δεξιολάβος might not be explicitly mentioned, the role of spearmen in battle formations reflects the use of this term in other military accounts.

Summary

Dexiolábos (G1187) is a Greek noun meaning “spearman” or “right-hand man,” derived from the words δεξιός (right) and λαμβάνω (to take). It refers to a soldier who is skilled with a spear, particularly using the right hand. This term is used primarily in ancient military contexts to describe soldiers who played a critical role in combat, often protecting the right flank of an army or serving as a guard or attendant. While the term does not appear in the New Testament, it is significant in understanding the military structure and terminology of ancient Greek warfare. Classical Greek literature reflects the role of such soldiers in various military campaigns and battles, highlighting their importance in the success and defense of armies.