Introduction
In Biblical studies, understanding the original Greek words used in the New Testament can provide significant insights into the text’s deeper meanings. The Greek word ἐνδώμησις (endōmēsis) is particularly interesting as it pertains to construction or building, themes that frequently appear in both literal and metaphorical contexts throughout scripture. Understanding this word helps elucidate passages related to the foundation, structure, and spiritual building of the Church and believers’ lives, tying together physical and spiritual imagery in ancient Greek culture and New Testament theology.
Key Information
- Greek Word: ἐνδώμησις (endōmēsis) [en-DOH-may-sis]
- Etymology: The word is derived from ἐν (en), meaning “in” or “within,” and δέμω (demō), meaning “to build.” Combined, it conveys the idea of something that is built into or incorporated within a structure.
- Part of Speech: Noun (feminine)
- The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon
Primary Meanings
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- Foundation: ἐνδώμησις refers to the foundational part of a building or structure, particularly something that is laid in or built into the foundation.
- Inlay or Construction Material: The term can also denote materials that are incorporated into a building, emphasizing their integration into the overall structure.
Similar Words:
- θεμέλιος (themelios) [theh-MEH-lee-os]: This word also relates to a foundation, specifically the base or support of a structure, often used in the New Testament metaphorically to refer to Christ as the foundation of the Church.
- οἰκοδομή (oikodomē) [oy-ko-do-MAY]: Meaning “building” or “edification,” this term is broader, encompassing the entire process of constructing a building or the spiritual growth of a community or individual.
- καταβολή (katabolē) [ka-ta-bo-LAY]: Often used in the context of the “foundation” of the world, this word has a more cosmic or creation-oriented sense compared to the more structural focus of ἐνδώμησις.
Further Insights:
- Morphology: As a feminine noun, ἐνδώμησις is used in contexts where the foundation or inlay of a structure is emphasized, particularly in the foundational aspects of spiritual or physical buildings.
- Linguistic Features: The combination of ἐν (en) with δέμω (demō) underscores the word’s emphasis on being within or integrated into a structure, highlighting the importance of what lies beneath the surface, both physically and metaphorically.
Lexicon Insights
BDAG:
BDAG explains ἐνδώμησις as referring to the material that is built into the foundation of a building, emphasizing its role in the stability and integrity of the structure.
Thayer’s:
Thayer’s lexicon describes ἐνδώμησις as “the act of building into,” focusing on the word’s application in construction, particularly in ancient architecture where materials were incorporated into the foundation.
LSJ:
Liddell-Scott-Jones notes that ἐνδώμησις is used in classical Greek literature to describe not only physical constructions but also metaphorical foundations, such as the underpinnings of philosophical arguments.
Vine’s:
Vine’s Expository Dictionary highlights the metaphorical use of ἐνδώμησις in New Testament theology, where it often represents the foundational elements of faith and the Church, built upon Christ.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance:
Strong’s concordance defines ἐνδώμησις as “building in” or “foundation,” noting its importance in passages that discuss the construction of both physical and spiritual structures.
Scripture References
The term ἐνδώμησις does not appear frequently in the New Testament. However, its concept is foundational to understanding several key passages:
- Ephesians 2:20: “Built on the foundation (ἐνδώμησις) of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone.”
- 1 Corinthians 3:10: “According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation (ἐνδώμησις), and someone else is building upon it.”
Classical Usage
| Author | Work | English Text |
|---|---|---|
| Herodotus | Histories | “The temple was built with stones and the foundation (ἐνδώμησις) laid with great care to ensure its strength and durability.” |
| Plato | Timaeus | “The foundation (ἐνδώμησις) of the city was laid first, as the beginning of a long-lasting and strong community.” |
| Aristotle | Politics | “In the foundation (ἐνδώμησις) of a well-ordered state, justice must be the cornerstone.” |
Summary of ἐνδώμησις (G1739: endōmēsis)
The word ἐνδώμησις (endōmēsis) is crucial for understanding both the physical and spiritual concepts of foundation and construction in Biblical and classical texts. As a term that emphasizes the integration of materials within a structure, it highlights the importance of what is built into the foundation, whether in a physical building or in the spiritual life of a believer. Its usage in the New Testament, though limited, underscores the foundational role of Christ and the apostles in the Church, making it a term rich with theological significance.
Did You Know?
In ancient Greek architecture, the foundation (ἐνδώμησις) was often the most crucial part of the building process, determining the structure’s stability and longevity. This concept translates well into the spiritual metaphor used in the New Testament, where the foundation of the Church is laid by the apostles and prophets, with Christ as the cornerstone.
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