Brief Overview of ἄτομος (G823: átomos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: átomos

Root Words: The Greek word ἄτομος (átomos) is derived from α- (a-, “not”) and τομος (tomos, “cut” or “section”). Together, these components mean “uncut” or “indivisible.”

Primary Meanings:

• Indivisible: Refers to something that cannot be divided or separated into parts.
• Atom: In scientific contexts, it refers to the smallest unit of matter that retains the properties of an element, though this modern concept is a later development from the original Greek meaning.
• Metaphorically Indivisible: Used figuratively to describe something that is whole or complete, without parts.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines ἄτομος as “indivisible” or “uncut.” It emphasizes the term’s use to describe something that cannot be divided into smaller parts, reflecting both its literal and metaphorical applications. The dictionary also notes the term’s influence on later scientific terminology.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes ἄτομος as “indivisible” and “not able to be cut into parts.” It highlights the term’s philosophical and scientific implications, including its role in discussions of the fundamental nature of matter.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary outlines ἄτομος as meaning “indivisible” or “unpartitionable,” with references to its use in both philosophical and physical contexts.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon defines ἄτομος as “indivisible,” reflecting its classical use to describe entities that cannot be divided. The lexicon also notes its application in philosophical and scientific discussions.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines ἄτομος as “indivisible,” focusing on its use to describe something that cannot be divided into parts.

Bible Verses:

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• Hebrews 4:12 (KJV): “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.”
• The term ἄτομος is used here to describe the Word of God as sharper and able to discern the most subtle divisions of human nature.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Democritus: The philosopher Democritus used the term ἄτομος to describe the fundamental, indivisible particles that he theorized composed all matter, known as “atoms” in modern science.
• Aristotle: In his Physics, Aristotle discussed the concept of indivisible particles and referenced ἄτομος in his exploration of the nature of matter and divisibility.
• Epicurus: Epicurus employed ἄτομος in his philosophy to describe the smallest units of matter, which he believed to be indivisible and essential to understanding the natural world.

4. Summary:

ἄτομος (átomos) is a Greek term meaning “indivisible” or “uncut,” derived from the components α- (a-, “not”) and τομος (tomos, “cut”). It originally referred to entities that could not be divided, reflecting both literal and metaphorical uses. In biblical texts, ἄτομος signifies the ability to discern the most intricate divisions of human nature. Classic Greek literature used the term to describe fundamental particles of matter, laying the groundwork for modern atomic theory. Understanding ἄτομος provides insight into its philosophical origins and its influence on both ancient and modern scientific concepts.