Brief Overview of Γονεύς (G1118: Goneús)

Transliteration and Meaning:
The Greek word γονεύς (transliterated as Goneús and pronounced as “go-nay-oos”) refers to a “parent” or “ancestor.” The word is derived from the root verb γίνομαι (ginomai), meaning “to become” or “to be born.” Goneús is used in the New Testament primarily to indicate one’s father, mother, or both parents collectively, highlighting the role of those who have given birth to or raised a child.

Lexical Insights and Biblical Usage:
In various lexicons such as BDAG, Thayer’s, LSJ, and Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance, γονεύς is consistently defined as “a parent” or “ancestor.” BDAG emphasizes that the term can refer to either father or mother and sometimes both parents as a collective unit. Thayer’s Lexicon similarly defines γονεύς as a parent, specifying its usage in contexts that involve the responsibilities or actions of parents towards their children.

Goneús appears in several key passages in the New Testament, including Matthew 10:21, Luke 2:27, and John 9:2. For example, in Luke 2:27, γονεύς is used to describe Joseph and Mary as they bring the infant Jesus to the temple in Jerusalem, fulfilling their parental duties. In John 9:2, the word is used when the disciples ask Jesus whether the man born blind sinned or if it was his parents (γονεῖς) who sinned, thus demonstrating the cultural and theological considerations of parental influence in Jewish thought.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature:
In classical Greek literature, γονεύς was a common term used to refer to a parent or ancestor. The word appears in the writings of well-known ancient authors such as Homer, Sophocles, and Herodotus. In Homer’s Iliad and Odyssey, the term is often used to denote the importance of lineage and heritage, where the identity of a hero or character is closely tied to their parents and ancestors. Sophocles uses the term in his tragedies to explore the complex relationships between parents and children, often within the context of family honor and tragic fate. In Herodotus’ Histories, the term is employed in genealogical descriptions, emphasizing the continuity of familial lines and the transmission of legacy from one generation to the next.

Summary:
The word γονεύς (G1118), transliterated as Goneús, refers to a parent or ancestor in both the New Testament and classical Greek literature. Derived from the root verb γίνομαι, meaning “to become” or “to be born,” Goneús carries the connotation of one who has given birth to or raised a child. Lexical sources such as BDAG, Thayer’s, and LSJ consistently define the term as “parent,” highlighting its role in familial and genealogical contexts. In the New Testament, Goneús is used in various passages to refer to parents, underscoring their responsibilities and influence in the lives of their children. In classical Greek literature, the term is widely used to emphasize lineage, heritage, and the relational dynamics between parents and their offspring. Thus, γονεύς serves as a key term that encapsulates the vital role of parents in both ancient Greek culture and the biblical narrative.