Brief Overview of δόσις (G1394: dósis)

• δόσις (dósis) [DOH-sis]
• Etymology: Derived from the Greek verb δίδωμι (dídōmi), which means “to give.” The root word emphasizes the act of giving or granting.
• Part of Speech: Noun, feminine.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• Gift or Act of Giving: The primary meaning of δόσις (dósis) is “gift” or the “act of giving.” This term is used to describe the act of bestowing or offering something, typically as a gift.
• Contribution: Another meaning can be a contribution or offering, something given in a more formal or structured context.

Further Insights:

• Morphological Composition: The word δόσις (dósis) is directly derived from the verb δίδωμι (dídōmi), meaning “to give.” It takes on the form of a feminine noun, emphasizing the result or product of the act of giving, rather than the action itself.
• Usage in Context: The term δόσις (dósis) can be found in contexts where the nature of the gift or offering is emphasized, pointing to the value or significance of what is being given, rather than the quantity.

Lexicon Insights:

• BDAG: BDAG highlights δόσις (dósis) as a noun that specifically refers to a gift, often used in a benevolent context where the giver’s generosity is highlighted. It is also noted as a term used in religious contexts, such as offerings to deities.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s emphasizes the association of δόσις (dósis) with divine gifts, particularly in the New Testament, where it often refers to gifts from God, such as wisdom or grace.
• LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones): LSJ notes δόσις (dósis) in both secular and religious contexts, ranging from personal gifts to formal offerings made in temples.
• Scripture References:
• James 1:17: “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
• Philippians 4:15: “Now you Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but you only.”

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:

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• Homer, Iliad: Although the specific term δόσις (dósis) may not appear frequently, the concept of giving, particularly in the form of gifts or offerings to the gods, is a recurring theme in Homeric literature, often reflecting the reciprocal relationships between gods and humans.
• Plato, Republic: Plato discusses the concept of giving in philosophical terms, where δόσις (dósis) can be interpreted as the act of giving knowledge, wisdom, or justice.
• Sophocles, Antigone: In classical tragedies like those of Sophocles, the idea of gifts or offerings, particularly in religious contexts, plays a crucial role in the unfolding of the narrative.

Summary of δόσις (G1394: dósis)

The Greek word δόσις (dósis), transliterated as dósis and pronounced [DOH-sis], primarily means “gift” or the “act of giving.” Derived from the verb dídōmi, meaning “to give,” the word emphasizes the result of giving rather than the act itself. In the New Testament, dósis often refers to divine gifts, highlighting God’s generosity towards humanity. This term is used both in religious contexts, such as offerings, and in everyday life, where it signifies contributions or gifts. In classical Greek literature, while the exact word might not always be prevalent, the concept of giving and receiving gifts, especially in religious and social contexts, is a significant theme. Whether used to describe a divine gift from above, as seen in James 1:17, or a material contribution, as mentioned in Philippians 4:15, dósis conveys the importance and value of what is given.