Brief Overview of αὐλός (G836: aulos)

1. Brief Overview:

Transliteration: aulos

Root Words: The noun αὐλός (aulos) has its roots in ancient Greek culture, where it is often associated with wind instruments, particularly those similar to a flute or reed-pipe. The word itself doesn’t derive from a more complex root but rather stands as a distinct term related to musical contexts.

Primary Meanings:

• Wind Instrument: αὐλός primarily refers to a wind instrument, similar to a flute or a double-reeded pipe, commonly used in ancient Greek music.
• Musical Pipe: The term can also be generalized to mean any type of pipe or tube, especially in musical settings.
• Syrinx or Shepherd’s Pipe: In some contexts, αὐλός may refer specifically to the syrinx or shepherd’s pipe, a simple wind instrument made from reeds.

2. Detailed Description:

BDAG: BDAG defines αὐλός as “flute” or “pipe,” emphasizing its use as a musical instrument in ancient Greek culture. The lexicon notes its appearance in various cultural and religious contexts, particularly where music or musical instruments are discussed.

Thayer’s: Thayer’s Greek Lexicon explains αὐλός as a “pipe or flute,” indicating its use as a wind instrument, often associated with festive or religious ceremonies.

Vines: Vines’ Expository Dictionary categorizes αὐλός as a “flute” or “pipe,” noting its historical significance in Greek music and its occasional symbolic use in the New Testament.

LSJ: The LSJ Lexicon offers a broader definition, referring to αὐλός as “a pipe, flute, or any wind instrument,” highlighting its widespread use in ancient Greek life, from music to religious rites.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s defines αὐλός simply as “a flute,” underscoring its primary function as a musical instrument in both secular and sacred contexts.

Bible Verses:

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• 1 Corinthians 14:7 (KJV): “And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?”
• The word “pipe” translates αὐλός, referring to a musical instrument that produces sound.
• Matthew 11:17 (KJV): “And saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not lamented.”
• The term is used metaphorically to describe playing music on a pipe (αὐλός) and its effect on the listeners.

3. Classic Greek Literature:

Usage in Classic Greek Literature:

• Homer: In The Iliad, the αὐλός is mentioned as an instrument used in both war and peace, reflecting its dual purpose in ancient Greek society.
• Pindar: In Pindar’s Odes, the αὐλός is celebrated for its role in both entertainment and religious ceremonies, symbolizing joy and divine inspiration.
• Herodotus: Herodotus mentions αὐλός in his Histories, where it is depicted as an instrument played during banquets and sacrifices, illustrating its cultural significance.

4. Summary:

αὐλός (aulos) refers to a wind instrument, commonly a flute or a similar pipe, used extensively in ancient Greek music. This word captures the essence of Greek musical traditions, where the αὐλός played a pivotal role in both public ceremonies and private entertainment. The term also carries symbolic weight in literature and religious practices, underscoring its cultural importance. Understanding αὐλός provides valuable insights into the musical and social life of the ancient Greeks, as well as its occasional metaphorical use in biblical texts.