ἀμήτωρ (amētōr) is a Greek term found in the New Testament. It is derived from the root words ἀ- (a-, meaning “without”) and μήτηρ (mētēr, meaning “mother”).
Possible Meanings:
- Without a Mother: Literally, it means “without a mother” or “motherless.”
- Motherless: Can be used to describe someone or something lacking a maternal figure or origin.
Detailed Overview with Concordances
1. BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature):
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- BDAG defines ἀμήτωρ as “motherless,” reflecting its literal meaning. It is used to describe a person or a situation where there is no mother present or where the mother is absent. The term is rarely used in the New Testament and is primarily found in context referring to genealogical or familial absence.
2. LSJ (Liddell-Scott-Jones Greek-English Lexicon):
- LSJ describes ἀμήτωρ as meaning “motherless.” It is used to indicate the absence of a mother, and this term often appears in contexts discussing genealogies or family structures.
3. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:
- Thayer provides a similar definition, noting that ἀμήτωρ means “without a mother.” It is used to denote the absence of a maternal figure, particularly in genealogical contexts.
4. Strong’s Concordance:
- Strong’s Concordance defines ἀμήτωρ as “motherless,” emphasizing its literal meaning and use in contexts where the lack of a mother is relevant.
Summary:
ἀμήτωρ means “motherless” or “without a mother.” According to BDAG, LSJ, Thayer’s Lexicon, and Strong’s Concordance, the term is used to describe the absence of a maternal figure or mother in genealogical or familial contexts. It reflects a literal absence and is rarely used in broader contexts.
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