Brief Overview of ἀντίλυτρον (Strong’s G487)

The Greek word ἀντίλυτρον (antilytron) is a noun meaning “a ransom” or “a redemption price.” It combines the prefix ἀντί (anti), meaning “instead of” or “in place of,” with λυτρόν (lytron), which refers to a ransom or price of redemption. Thus, ἀντίλυτρον signifies a sum of money or a payment made to release someone from a debt or bondage.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἀντίλυτρον as “a ransom.” It emphasizes the concept of a price paid to redeem or free someone from a debt or captivity. This term is used to represent the cost or payment required for liberation.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG provides a detailed explanation, describing ἀντίλυτρον as “a ransom, something given in exchange for another.” It underlines its role as a payment made to secure the release of someone from captivity or a debt.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἀντίλυτρον as “ransom,” focusing on its usage as the price paid to free someone from a debt or bondage. The lexicon notes that it denotes a substitute payment made to obtain freedom.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἀντίλυτρον as “ransom,” or “the price of redemption.” It highlights its use in contexts where a payment is made to release someone from captivity or to redeem them from a debt or obligation.

In summary, ἀντίλυτρον (antilytron) refers to a ransom or redemption price, representing a payment made to free someone from a debt or captivity. While Strong’s provides a basic definition, BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s offer additional nuances, emphasizing its function as a payment made in exchange for liberation or redemption.