Brief Overview of ἅπας (Strong’s G537)

The Greek word ἅπας (hapas) is an adjective meaning “all,” “every,” or “whole.” It is used to describe something that is complete or encompasses the entirety of a particular category or group. The term emphasizes totality or inclusiveness and can be used to refer to all members of a group or the entirety of something.

Detailed Overview

1. Strong’s Concordance: Strong’s defines ἅπας as “all,” “every,” or “whole.” It is used to convey the idea of totality or the inclusion of every part or member of a group. This term is used in various contexts in the New Testament to indicate the entirety of a thing or the totality of a category.
2. Bauer-Danker-Arndt-Gingrich (BDAG) Greek-English Lexicon: BDAG describes ἅπας as meaning “all,” “every,” or “whole.” It is used to denote completeness or totality. BDAG notes that it can apply to individuals (e.g., every person), to things (e.g., every object), or to abstract concepts (e.g., all circumstances). The lexicon also discusses its usage in both general and specific contexts, highlighting its function in denoting the entirety of what is being described.
3. Liddell-Scott-Jones (LSJ) Greek-English Lexicon: LSJ defines ἅπας as “all,” “the whole,” or “every.” It underscores its role in expressing totality or the entire extent of a given subject. LSJ notes that ἅπας can be used in various contexts to convey the idea of all-inclusive or comprehensive coverage.
4. Thayer’s Greek-English Lexicon: Thayer’s describes ἅπας as “all,” “every,” or “the whole.” It emphasizes its use to indicate totality or entirety, whether referring to people, things, or abstract ideas. Thayer’s explains that the term is employed to denote the complete extent or inclusiveness of something.

In summary, ἅπας (hapas) signifies “all,” “every,” or “whole,” reflecting the concept of totality or inclusiveness. Strong’s Concordance highlights its general meaning, while BDAG, LSJ, and Thayer’s provide a broader understanding of its application in various contexts to indicate the entirety or completeness of a subject.