Brief overview of δωδέκατος (G1428: dōdékatos)

Introduction:

In the study of Biblical Greek, understanding the specific meanings and nuances of words is crucial for accurate interpretation. The word δωδέκατος (dōdékatos) is the ordinal form of the number twelve, meaning “twelfth.” This term appears in the New Testament, primarily in contexts related to time, sequence, or position. Recognizing the significance of ordinal numbers like δωδέκατος in both scriptural and broader cultural contexts provides deeper insight into ancient texts and the thought patterns of the period.

Key Information:

• Greek Word: δωδέκατος (dōdékatos) [doh-DEH-kah-tos]
• Etymology: Derived from δώδεκα (dōdéka), meaning “twelve,” with the suffix -τος (-tos), indicating an ordinal number.
• Part of Speech: Adjective, ordinal number
• The F.O.G Word Choice: Coming Soon

Primary Meanings:

• Twelfth: The primary and literal meaning of δωδέκατος is “twelfth,” used to indicate the position in a sequence, such as the twelfth month or twelfth day.
• Sequence and Order: In addition to its literal meaning, δωδέκατος carries connotations of order, sequence, and structure, which are vital in understanding timelines or lists in Biblical texts.

Similar Words:

• δέκατος (dékatos) [DEH-kah-tos]: Meaning “tenth,” this word shares the same ordinal suffix -τος but is based on the number ten (δέκα).
• ἕνδεκατος (héndekatos) [HEN-deh-kah-tos]: Meaning “eleventh,” this word is closely related, differing only by one position in the sequence.
• πρῶτος (prōtos) [PROH-tos]: Meaning “first,” this word differs in its root but shares the ordinal function of indicating position.

Further Insights:

• Morphology:
• Suffix -τος (-tos): The suffix used here is standard for creating ordinal numbers in Greek, indicating the word’s function as describing position within a sequence.
• Indeclinability: Unlike some numerals, δωδέκατος is not indeclinable; it changes according to gender, number, and case, which makes it adaptable within different grammatical contexts.

Lexicon Insights:

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• BDAG: This lexicon emphasizes the use of δωδέκατος in contexts where the precise position in a sequence is significant, particularly in apocalyptic literature where exact numbers often carry symbolic weight.
• Thayer’s Lexicon: Thayer’s notes the importance of δωδέκατος in indicating the order of months, tribes, or other groupings, showing the term’s role in organizing information.
• Vine’s Expository Dictionary: Vine’s highlights the symbolic importance of the number twelve and its ordinal form in Biblical narratives, especially in relation to the twelve tribes of Israel.
• LSJ: The LSJ lexicon discusses the broader use of δωδέκατος in classical Greek literature, where it appears in various administrative, legal, and ceremonial contexts.
• Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance: Strong’s points out the specific New Testament occurrences of δωδέκατος, noting its relevance in texts that discuss time, such as the twelfth hour or the twelfth month.

Scripture Reference:

• Revelation 21:14: “The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve [δωδεκάτων] apostles of the Lamb.”

Classical Usage:

Summary of δωδέκατος (G1428: dōdékatos)

The word δωδέκατος (dōdékatos) is an ordinal number meaning “twelfth,” used primarily in contexts that require precision in sequence or order. Its use in the New Testament and classical Greek literature underscores its importance in conveying the structured flow of time, events, or groups. Understanding δωδέκατος enriches our interpretation of Biblical texts, allowing us to grasp the significance of ordered sequences in ancient religious and cultural contexts.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the use of the number twelve (and its ordinal form δωδέκατος) has significant symbolic meaning in many cultures? In addition to its Biblical importance, the number twelve is often associated with completeness and cosmic order, as seen in the twelve months of the year, and the twelve Olympian gods in Greek mythology.