Brief Overview of δεξιός (G1188: dexiŏs)

Dexiŏs (pronounced dex-EE-os) is a Greek adjective that primarily means “right” or “right-hand.” It is derived from the root word δέχομαι (dékhomai), which means “to receive” or “to accept.” The word δεξιός is often used to denote the right side, particularly the right hand, which was culturally and symbolically significant in ancient times. It can also carry connotations of strength, honor, and authority, as the right hand was typically associated with power and favor.

Root Word and Part of Speech:

• Root Word: δέχομαι (dékhomai), meaning “to receive” or “to accept.”
• Part of Speech: Adjective.

Primary Meanings:

• Right: The primary meaning of δεξιός is “right” or “right-hand,” referring to the side that is considered stronger and more honorable in many cultures.
• Favor or Honor: By extension, it can symbolize a position of favor, power, or honor, often used in contexts where someone is seated at the right hand of a person of authority.

Scripture References

1. Matthew 25:33: “And he will place the sheep on his right (δεξιός, dexiŏs), but the goats on the left.”

• Transliteration: dexiŏs

1. Mark 16:19: “So then the Lord Jesus, after he had spoken to them, was taken up into heaven and sat down at the right hand (δεξιός, dexiŏs) of God.”

• Transliteration: dexiŏs

1. Acts 7:55: “But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand (δεξιός, dexiŏs) of God.”

• Transliteration: dexiŏs

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Detailed Description

BDAG (A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature) defines δεξιός as “right” or “right-hand,” emphasizing its use in both literal and symbolic contexts. BDAG highlights its significance in passages where the right hand or right side denotes a place of honor, authority, or favor, such as in the descriptions of Jesus seated at the right hand of God.

Thayer’s Greek Lexicon describes δεξιός as “the right side” or “right hand,” noting its cultural implications in terms of strength, skill, and honor. Thayer’s emphasizes that in the ancient world, the right hand was often associated with power and blessing, and the use of δεξιός in the New Testament often reflects this symbolism.

Vine’s Expository Dictionary supports this understanding by noting that δεξιός is used to denote the right side or hand, particularly in contexts where it represents a position of authority or honor. Vine’s explains that this usage is consistent with ancient practices where the right hand was favored over the left.

Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance provides a straightforward definition of δεξιός as “right” or “right-hand,” focusing on its application in describing direction, position, and metaphorical use in terms of favor and power.

Usage in Classical Greek Literature

1. Homer’s “Iliad”: In the epic, δεξιός is used to describe the right hand, often in the context of combat or decision-making. The right hand is depicted as the dominant hand, associated with strength and the ability to wield weapons effectively.
2. Herodotus’ “Histories”: Herodotus uses δεξιός to describe the right side in various contexts, including geography, military formations, and ritual practices. The term is often associated with the favorable or fortunate side.
3. Plato’s “Republic”: Plato references δεξιός when discussing directions and choices, using the right side as a metaphor for correct or virtuous decisions. This reflects the broader cultural view of the right side as superior or more desirable.

Summary

Dexiŏs (G1188) is a Greek adjective meaning “right” or “right-hand,” derived from δέχομαι (dékhomai), which means “to receive” or “to accept.” The term is primarily used to denote the right side or right hand, which is often associated with strength, honor, and favor in ancient cultures. In the New Testament, δεξιός is frequently used to describe the position of Jesus at the right hand of God, symbolizing a place of authority and power. Classical Greek literature also reflects the significance of the right side, using δεξιός in various contexts to denote superiority, strength, and correctness. The word δεξιός thus carries both literal and symbolic meanings, emphasizing the cultural and religious importance of the right hand and right side.