Brief Overview of Ἑνώχ (Strong’s G1802: Henōch)

Introduction

Understanding Greek words in Biblical studies is crucial for grasping the nuances and deeper meanings found in the original texts. The Greek word Ἑνώχ (Henōch) is particularly significant due to its use as a proper name in Biblical narratives. It is directly associated with the patriarch Enoch, who is noted for his exceptional piety and closeness to God, leading to his being “taken up” without experiencing death. Studying this word helps in understanding not only the character of Enoch in Biblical interpretation but also the ancient Jewish perspectives on righteousness, immortality, and divine favor.

Key Information

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• The Greek Word: Ἑνώχ (Henōch) [he-NOHKH]
• Etymology: The name Ἑνώχ derives from the Hebrew חֲנוֹךְ (Ḥănôk), which means “dedicated” or “initiated.”
• Part of Speech: Proper noun, masculine; indeclinable in the Greek form.
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon.

Primary Meanings

• A proper noun referring to the Biblical patriarch Enoch, son of Jared, known for his walk with God and being taken up by God (Genesis 5:24).
• Also refers to Enoch, son of Cain, in Genesis.

Similar Words: Ἐνώχ (Henōk) [he-NOHK], although transliterated slightly differently, is essentially the same name, emphasizing the Hebrew origin. Ἀδάμ (Adam) [ah-DAM] is another proper noun that appears in similar genealogical contexts but refers to the first human created by God, showing a different thematic focus in Biblical literature.

Further Insights: Ἑνώχ is a proper noun that is indeclinable in Greek, meaning it does not change form regardless of its grammatical function in a sentence. This feature simplifies its use in texts, as there is no need for declensional changes, unlike other Greek nouns that change endings based on case (nominative, genitive, etc.).

Lexicon Insights

BDAG: The word Ἑνώχ appears as a proper noun used primarily to refer to the Biblical patriarch known for his exceptional piety and close relationship with God, particularly in the Septuagint and New Testament genealogies.
Thayer’s: Lists Ἑνώχ as the Greek form of the Hebrew name Enoch, highlighting its significance in Biblical texts where Enoch is a key figure for his righteousness and direct ascension to God.
Vines: Discusses Ἑνώχ within the context of genealogical records and the theological implications of his “walking with God,” which is considered a model for divine-human relationships.
LSJ: Recognizes Ἑνώχ as a transliteration of the Hebrew name, emphasizing its appearance in religious texts rather than secular Greek literature.
Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Identifies Ἑνώχ as G1802, used exclusively as a proper name in the New Testament to refer to the descendant of Adam and Jared’s son, known for his walk with God and for being taken by God.

Scripture References

Classical Usage

Summary of Ἑνώχ (G1802: Henōch)

The Greek word Ἑνώχ (Henōch) is a proper noun that represents the Hebrew name Enoch. This name is especially significant in Biblical contexts due to the patriarch Enoch’s unique relationship with God, characterized by his faithfulness and resulting in his ascension without experiencing death. As an indeclinable noun in Greek, Ἑνώχ remains consistent in form, facilitating its use in texts. The name appears in both Old and New Testament genealogies, as well as in extra-biblical literature like 1 Enoch and Sirach, illustrating its importance in Jewish and early Christian thought.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Enoch (Ἑνώχ) is one of only two figures in the Bible described as having “walked with God” and being “taken” by Him, the other being the prophet Elijah? This unique status has sparked much theological reflection and discussion about Enoch’s life, his role as a prophet, and his significance in Jewish and Christian eschatology.