Brief Overview of Ἀββᾶ (G5: Abba)

Ἀββᾶ (Abba):
The Greek word “Ἀββᾶ” (Abba) is a term of endearment meaning “father” or “daddy.” It is an Aramaic word that was adopted into Greek usage and appears in the New Testament to express a close, personal, and intimate relationship with God. It signifies a deep sense of trust and affection, akin to the relationship between a child and their father.

Detailed Overview Incorporating Other Concordances

Ἀββᾶ (Abba):

1. Strong’s Concordance:

• Meaning: According to Strong’s Concordance (G5), “Ἀββᾶ” is an Aramaic term meaning “father.” It conveys a sense of intimacy and familiarity, often translated as “daddy” or “papa” in English. The term is used in the New Testament in a few key passages, notably by Jesus in His prayers and by Paul to express the believers’ relationship with God.

1. Thayer’s Greek Lexicon:

• Meaning: Thayer’s Lexicon explains that “Ἀββᾶ” is a term of endearment derived from the Aramaic language. It was used by children in addressing their fathers, signifying a close and affectionate bond. Thayer’s highlights its use in the New Testament to denote a profound and personal relationship with God, transcending mere formal address.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words:

• Meaning: Vine’s Dictionary elaborates on “Ἀββᾶ,” noting its significance in expressing a childlike trust and dependence on God. It is often combined with the Greek word “πατήρ” (pater) to emphasize the intimate and respectful relationship believers have with God. Vine’s points out that this term encapsulates both reverence and closeness, reflecting the unique relationship Christians are invited to have with their Heavenly Father.

1. Louw-Nida Greek-English Lexicon:

• Meaning: The Louw-Nida Lexicon categorizes “Ἀββᾶ” under terms related to familial relationships, specifically that of a child to their father. It defines “Abba” as an intimate term of address, used to convey both familiarity and respect. The lexicon emphasizes its New Testament usage to highlight the unique and personal nature of the believer’s relationship with God.

1. Moulton-Milligan Vocabulary of the Greek New Testament:

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• Meaning: Moulton-Milligan notes that “Ἀββᾶ” is an Aramaic term that was readily understood in the Greek-speaking world of the New Testament. It underscores the affectionate and trusting nature of the term, which Jesus Himself used in prayer. Moulton-Milligan emphasizes the term’s importance in illustrating the intimate relationship between God and His children, breaking away from more formal and distant forms of address.

Summary:
“Ἀββᾶ” (Abba) is an Aramaic term meaning “father” or “daddy,” used to express a deep, personal, and intimate relationship with God. Various concordances, including Strong’s, Thayer’s, Vine’s, Louw-Nida, and Moulton-Milligan, emphasize its usage in the New Testament to denote a close, affectionate, and trusting relationship with God. This term reflects the profound intimacy and respect that believers are invited to have with their Heavenly Father, highlighting the unique nature of the Christian faith’s personal and familial aspects.